Black King Kong Shrimp - Caridina cf Cantonensis : Complete Shrimp Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Black King Kong Shrimp (Caridina cf Cantonensis) is an extraordinary variant of the Taiwan Bee Shrimp. This selectively bred shrimp is a colour morph of Crystal Black, Crystal Red, and Golden Bee Shrimp. Black King Kong Shrimp is a captivating and engaging addition to a well-maintained, planted aquarium. Their shoaling behaviour and stunning colouration contribute to a visually appealing and dynamic aquatic environment. When selecting tankmates, prioritize species that align with their water parameters and temperament to ensure a harmonious coexistence.
It is essential to ensure that the aquarium is fully cycled and has an abundant supply of biofilm and plants for the shrimp to graze on. Aside from their remarkable appearance, the Black King Kong Shrimp is also an excellent species for controlling aquarium algae. Keep in mind that copper is toxic to all Dwarf Shrimp, so it's crucial to avoid any copper getting into the aquarium.
The Black King Kong Shrimp has an almost black body with a range of small white markings near the upper body. However, some Shrimp can also be entirely black, and the name or grade used for the shrimp can vary depending on the marks they present. Overall, the Black King Kong Shrimp is a fascinating and beautiful addition to any aquarium.
Black King Kong Shrimp Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the gender of Black King Kong Shrimp can be challenging, particularly before reaching maturity. The female shrimp possess a larger tail and exhibit a saddle shape on the upper body, which serves as a storage area for eggs before fertilization. Due to their dark coloration, identifying the saddle can be quite difficult in these shrimp. However, the saddle will become more visible as the female shrimp approach the breeding stage. At maturity, the males are typically smaller in size than their female counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Caridina cf Cantonensis |
|---|---|
| Other Names | BKK, Taiwan Bee |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Malacostraca |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Family | Atyidae |
| Genus | Caridina |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 3 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Herbivore |
| Reproduction | Ovoviviparous |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 2 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| GH | 4 - 6 |
| KH | 0 - 2 |
| TDS | 80 - 150 |
| ℉ | 68 - 78 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 25 |
Natural Habitat
The striking Black King Kong Shrimp is a product of careful selective breeding and cannot be found in the wild. Nonetheless, its wild ancestor, the Caridina Cantonensis, is a fascinating species native to Taiwan, Southeast Asia. In their natural habitat, they thrive in shallow, clear, soft, and acidic water with a mix of fast and slow-flowing currents. These mountain creeks and streams are typically blanketed in dense vegetation, including overhanging trees, fallen branches, and leaves, providing an ideal environment for these shrimp to forage and thrive.
Breeding
Breeding Black King Kong Shrimp follows the standard procedure for breeding Caridina shrimp. The gravid females will hold the eggs for approximately 30 days until they hatch into miniature versions of their adult form. To ensure the survival of the shrimplets, it is crucial to have a well-established aquarium with an abundant biofilm for them to feed on until they are mature enough to consume other food sources. Proper water conditions and a varied diet for the adult shrimp are also crucial to ensure a successful breeding process.
Diet & Feeding
Black King Kong Shrimp are known to be opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat almost anything they can find. In a well-established aquarium, they can survive on decayed vegetation, algae, and biofilm. However, for optimal health and breeding, it is crucial to provide them with a balanced diet.
Algae wafers are a favourite of the Black King Kong shrimp, and supplementing their diet with Indian Almond Leaves or Alder Cones can help improve their immune system. Adding variety to their diet by offering blanched vegetables like broccoli, lettuce, and spinach can also be beneficial. By providing a diverse range of food, you can ensure that your Black King Kong shrimp thrive and maintain their vivid colouration.
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