Tangerine Tiger Shrimp: A Bright and Striking Caridina Variety

The Tangerine Tiger Shrimp (Caridina serrata var. “Tangerine Tiger”) is a beautiful freshwater dwarf shrimp known for its vivid orange coloration and bold striping. As one of the more unique Caridina shrimp, it stands out in planted aquariums and is prized by shrimp hobbyists for both its appearance and relatively easy care compared to other Caridina species.

Appearance
Tangerine Tiger Shrimp feature a bright orange to tangerine-colored body with distinct black stripes running vertically along their carapace. Their eyes are often a striking orange or golden hue, giving them a fiery, glowing look. Each shrimp has slightly different markings, making every individual unique.

Care Requirements
Although a Caridina species, Tangerine Tigers are considered hardier and more adaptable than many other high-grade Caridina shrimp. They still require stable, clean water conditions but are less demanding than delicate varieties like Crystal Reds or Taiwan Bees.

* Tank Size: 10 gallons or larger is recommended.
* Water Parameters: pH 6.2–7.4, GH 4–8, KH 0–4.
* Temperature: 68–74°F is ideal.
* Filtration: Sponge filters or gentle filtration systems that won’t suck up shrimplets.
* Substrate: Active substrates that help buffer pH are often preferred, but inert substrates can also work if parameters remain stable.

Diet
Tangerine Tiger Shrimp are omnivorous and graze constantly. They naturally feed on biofilm, algae, and detritus in the aquarium. For best health and coloration, supplement their diet with:

* High-quality shrimp-specific pellets or granules
* Blanched vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cucumber
* Occasional protein-rich foods, such as shrimp wafers or frozen daphnia

Tankmates
Tangerine Tigers are peaceful but can be vulnerable to predatory or aggressive tankmates. Ideal companions include:

* Other peaceful Caridina shrimp
* Small, non-aggressive fish such as rasboras or small tetras
* Snails like Nerite or Mystery Snails
For breeding projects or color purity, many hobbyists prefer shrimp-only tanks.

Breeding
Breeding Tangerine Tiger Shrimp is usually easier than with other Caridina species. Females carry eggs for about 3–4 weeks before releasing fully developed shrimplets. A heavily planted tank with mosses provides hiding places and grazing surfaces for baby shrimp, improving survival rates. Selective breeding can intensify their orange color and refine their stripe patterns over time.

Why Keep Tangerine Tiger Shrimp?
Tangerine Tiger Shrimp are eye-catching, active, and relatively easy to care for compared to other Caridina shrimp. Their fiery orange coloration and bold striping make them a standout in any aquarium, while their peaceful nature and algae-grazing habits add both beauty and function to the tank.

If you’re looking for a vibrant and hardy Caridina shrimp that offers a unique look, the Tangerine Tiger Shrimp is an excellent choice for your aquarium.