Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp - Caridina tigri Shrimp Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
The captivating social behaviours of Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp (Caridina tigri) are a favourite among breeders and aquarists alike. This non-aggressive species enjoys the company of other inhabitants and is renowned for its ability to thrive in warmer temperatures and display vivid colours, making it a popular addition to any aquarium.
Sulawesi shrimps are generally shy and sensitive to water parameter changes, making it essential to provide them with ample hiding places in the tank, such as caves, rocks, plants, or moss, to ensure safe moulting and promote activity. When given enough hiding spaces, these fascinating creatures will frequently come out and graze, providing a delightful spectacle for any observer.
Maintaining a larger shrimp colony will encourage these captivating creatures to leave their hiding places more frequently and increase the chances of successful breeding. However, it is recommended to avoid housing them with herbivores or small fish, as even their mere presence can cause stress to Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp.
Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp come in two distinct base colours, brown and red, and display a tiger-like pattern with white stripes over the body, giving them their unique and fitting name. In addition, these captivating creatures possess reddish transparent appendages, with the first two pairs of legs typically white, providing a stunning display of colouration and patterns that enhances the beauty of any aquarium.
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Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the sex of Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp is an arduous task, as there are no distinguishable physical characteristics between males and females visible to the naked eye. The presence of eggs is the primary indicator of females, identified by a saddle located beneath the carapace. However, this feature can only be observed under infrared light, as the shrimp's exterior shell is too opaque to discern the saddle's presence without specialized equipment.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Caridina tigri |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Red Tiger Sulawesi Shrimp |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Malacostraca |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Family | Atyidae |
| Genus | Sewellia |
| Origins | Indonesia |
| Approx Max Size | 2.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 8+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Ovoviviparous |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 2 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.5 - 8.5 |
| GH | 4 - 10 |
| KH | 3 - 8 |
| TDS | 50 - 150 |
| ℉ | 77 - 86 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 25 - 30 |
Natural Habitat
Originating from the Sulawesi region of Southeast Asia, Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp inhabit two ancient lakes, Lake Poso and Malili Lake, known for their distinctive and unparalleled water chemistry. These lakes, along with other bodies of water in the region, possess a unique and delicate ecosystem that is home to an array of captivating aquatic life. Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp thrive in water conditions that differ somewhat from those of other Dwarf Shrimp. These species require a pH level and water temperature that is slightly higher than what is necessary for most Dwarf Shrimp from the Sulawesi region.
Specifically, they require a high pH level, but not to the point of brackish water, and typically inhabit calm waters with vegetation and leaf litter, providing them with a comfortable and suitable environment. The Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp's natural habitat is a fascinating and captivating ecosystem, showcasing the remarkable diversity and intricacy of the aquatic world. As a species native to this unique region, they are a true treasure, and their beauty and resilience make them a beautiful addition to any aquarium.
Breeding
Breeding Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp is a relatively straightforward process that can be accomplished with proper feeding and suitable water parameters. Males and females will typically breed without any complications under ideal conditions. Females will carry approximately 20 to 30 reddish eggs between their pleopods.
If no significant issues arise, the eggs will hatch within 20 to 28 days, with no larval stage present in the Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp's reproductive cycle. Females will continue to carry their eggs until they hatch into miniature versions of the adult shrimp, commonly referred to as shrimplets.
Newly hatched shrimplets exhibit the same striking colouration as their adult counterparts, and their growth rates are notably rapid. With proper tank maintenance, these shrimplets can grow as quickly as some Neocaridina Shrimp species.
Diet & Feeding
Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp are versatile omnivores that rely on algae and biofilm as their primary food source. In larger colonies, it is crucial to balance their feeding to avoid any nutritional imbalances. Supplementing their diet with blanched vegetables and high-quality dried foods is an excellent way to ensure optimal health and longevity.
Feeding Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp once a day is recommended, with an amount that can be consumed within 2 to 3 hours to avoid excess food lying around, which can affect water quality in the aquarium. Overfeeding is a common cause of death in shrimp, and it is crucial to be mindful of the amount and frequency of feeding to maintain their well-being.
By providing a well-balanced diet and appropriate feeding regimen, Tigris Sulawesi Shrimp can thrive and display their vibrant colouration and unique personalities, enhancing the beauty and vitality of any aquarium they inhabit.
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Published: 22 Mar 2021
Last Updated: 08 Sep 2023