Red Fancy Tiger Caridina Shrimp: A Stunning Addition to Your Aquarium

The Red Fancy Tiger Caridina is one of the most striking freshwater dwarf shrimp varieties in the aquarium hobby. Known for its vivid red coloration contrasted with bold white striping, this shrimp is a hybrid of the Tiger Shrimp and Crystal Red Shrimp. Its eye-catching appearance makes it a favorite among shrimp keepers and aquascaping enthusiasts alike.

Appearance
Red Fancy Tiger Caridina are easily identified by their deep, ruby-red base color with crisp, often irregular, white markings. Each shrimp has a unique pattern, ranging from banded stripes to marbled designs, which adds individuality to every colony. Their bright coloration stands out beautifully against green aquatic plants, mosses, and dark substrate.

Care Requirements
Like most Caridina species, Red Fancy Tigers thrive in stable and clean water conditions. They are sensitive to changes in water parameters, so consistency is key.

* Tank Size: Best kept in nano or small aquariums of 10 gallons or more.
* Water Parameters: Soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.8–6.8), GH 4–6, KH 0–2.
* Temperature: 68–74°F is ideal.
* Filtration: Gentle filtration with sponge filters is recommended to avoid stressing the shrimp while maintaining excellent water quality.
* Substrate: Active substrate that buffers pH and supports Caridina shrimp health.

Diet
These shrimp are omnivores and will feed on biofilm, algae, and detritus in the aquarium. A balanced diet of high-quality shrimp food, blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach), and supplemental protein sources ensures healthy growth, strong coloration, and successful breeding.

Tankmates
Due to their delicate nature, Red Fancy Tiger Caridina should not be housed with aggressive or predatory fish. Ideal tankmates include:

* Other peaceful Caridina shrimp
* Small, non-aggressive fish like chili rasboras or ember tetras
* Snails such as Nerite or Malaysian Trumpet Snails

A dedicated shrimp-only tank is often the best way to ensure their safety and encourage breeding.

Breeding
Breeding Red Fancy Tiger Caridina can be rewarding, though slightly challenging due to their need for pristine water conditions. Females carry eggs under their abdomen for about 4 weeks before releasing fully formed, miniature shrimplets. Providing plenty of mosses, hiding spots, and biofilm-rich surfaces will increase survival rates for the young.

Why Keep Red Fancy Tiger Caridina?
These shrimp are prized not only for their beauty but also for the sense of accomplishment that comes with successfully keeping and breeding them. Their vibrant colors bring life to planted aquariums, making them a centerpiece in any aquascape. While they require more care than hardy Neocaridina shrimp, the results are well worth the effort.

If you’re looking for a rare and elegant shrimp to add to your collection, the Red Fancy Tiger Caridina is a perfect choice. With the right care, they’ll thrive and reward you with their stunning appearance and active personalities.