A sensitive, highly prized dwarf shrimp species known for its vivid red/white or black/white banding. Unlike the hardy Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina), Bee Shrimp require cool, soft, acidic water and typically require active buffering soil to thrive. They are peaceful grazers perfect for specific biotope setups.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Crystal Red (CRS)
The classic red and white morph. Grading ranges from C (mostly red) to SSS (mostly white). Requires active soil to maintain pH < 6.8.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Mosura, Hinomaru, Tiger Tooth, V-Band, SSS Grade
Crystal Black (CBS)
The wild-type coloration (or selectively bred black/white). Husbandry is identical to Crystal Reds. They can interbreed with Reds.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Black Bee, Black Diamond
Taiwan Bee / Shadow
Deeply colored mutations of the Bee Shrimp. Includes Blue Bolt, King Kong, and Panda variants. Often considered slightly more sensitive than standard CRS/CBS and commands a higher price.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Blue Bolt, King Kong, Panda, Red Ruby, Shadow Bee
Tiger Shrimp
Often classified closely with Cantonensis (and hybridizes as 'Tibee'). Tiger shrimp generally tolerate slightly higher pH (up to 7.2) and temperature than pure Crystals, but interbreeding is common.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Caridina mariae, Blue Tiger, OEBT, Orange Eye Blue Tiger
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) Care Summary
The Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black), scientifically known as Caridina cantonensis, belongs to the Invertebrates family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 3 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 19 litres and a tank length of at least 30 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 18°C and 24°C, with a pH range of 5.5–6.8 and a general hardness of 3–6 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include soil / nutrient rich, plants - densely covered, driftwood (digestion/hiding), leaf litter/blackwater, and established algae (otocinclus).
As a schooling species, Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) should be kept in groups of at least 10. This species is available in 4 varieties: Crystal Red (CRS), Crystal Black (CBS), Taiwan Bee / Shadow, and Tiger Shrimp. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
One of the most popular and hardy freshwater invertebrates in the hobby. They come in a rainbow of selectively bred colors. They are excellent scavengers and algae eaters, perfect for nano planted tanks. They are completely peaceful and have a negligible bioload, though they are highly vulnerable to predation by almost any fish with a mouth large enough to eat them.
Bumblebee Goby (Brackish)
Brachygobius xanthozonus
A miniature, bottom-dwelling goby famous for its striking black and yellow stripes. While they are often sold as freshwater fish and can survive in it temporarily, they are highly susceptible to fungal infections in fresh water and truly require a brackish setup (SG 1.002-1.005) to thrive long-term. They are notoriously picky eaters, often ignoring flakes in favor of live or frozen foods (like bloodworms or brine shrimp).
Scarlet Badis
Dario dario
One of the smallest known aquarium fish, resembling a tiny jewel. Males display brilliant vertical red and iridescent blue stripes. While beautiful, they are known for being extremely picky eaters, often refusing dry foods and requiring live or frozen micro-foods (Daphnia, Baby Brine Shrimp). Males act like tiny Cichlids and will stake out territories.
Honey Gourami
Trichogaster chuna
The smallest and most peaceful member of the Trichogaster genus. Ideally suited for planted nano aquariums. Unlike the aggressive Dwarf Gourami (*T. lalius*), Honey Gouramis are timid and gentle. True Honey Gouramis rarely exceed 5cm. Note: Many bright red fish sold as 'Red Honey' or 'Red Robin' are actually Thick-lipped Gouramis (*T. labiosa*), which grow larger.
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
A highly popular, industrious freshwater shrimp renowned for its unmatched algae-eating abilities. Popularized by aquascaper Takashi Amano, they are significantly larger and hardier than most dwarf shrimp (like Cherry Shrimp). They are notorious food-thieves during feeding time and excellent escape artists, requiring a tight-fitting lid. Their larvae require saltwater to develop, so they will not overpopulate in a freshwater aquarium.
Sparkling Gourami
Trichopsis pumila
A stunning nano species known for its iridescent blue/green eyes, body spots, and ability to make audible 'croaking' sounds. Unlike many anabantoids, they are social and best kept in groups. However, they are efficient micropredators that will hunt shrimp fry and pests like hydra. Requires stable water parameters and dense planting.