Maximum size : 3 cm

Shadow Panda Shrimp - Caridina cantonensis var "Panda" : Complete Shrimp Profile & Care Guide

Shadow Panda Shrimps (Caridina cantonensis var "Panda"). are amazing creatures and are highly valued by hobbyists for their bright colouration and excellent cleaning abilities. They are perfect tankmates for small, peaceful fish that won't try to make a meal out of them. While the Shadow Panda Shrimp may not be the easiest dwarf shrimp to keep, they are well worth the effort for experienced shrimp keepers. With the proper care and attention, they can thrive and be a stunning addition to any shrimp collection.

These shrimp need lots of hiding places to feel secure, making it essential to add some simple aquarium plants such as Java fern and some driftwood or rocks for them to hide in. By creating a comfortable and secure environment for your Shadow Panda Shrimp, you can ensure that they are happy and healthy, bringing a touch of natural beauty and wonder to your home.

The Shadow Panda Shrimp is an uncommon mutation of the CBS, first bred in Taiwan. These stunning creatures have black faces and intense white and black colours with hints of blue or green that are incredibly vibrant and opaque, making them a standout feature of any aquarium.

Shadow Panda Shrimp Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

Determining the gender of Shadow Panda Shrimp can be challenging until sexual maturity is attained. During this time, female Shadow Panda Shrimp will display distinctive physical characteristics that differentiate them from males. Females typically exhibit a slightly larger size, a rounder undercarriage, a relatively larger tail, and often more vibrant colouration than their male counterparts.

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Caridina cantonensis var "Panda"
Other Names	Blue Panda Shrimp, Black Panda Shrimp, Black King Kong Panda
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Malacostraca
Order	Decapoda
Family	Atyidae
Genus	Caridina
Origins	China
Max Size	3 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	5.5 - 7.0
GH	3 - 6
KH	0 - 2
TDS	90 - 120

Ideal Temperature
℉	68 - 72
℃	20 - 22

Natural Habitat

The vibrant landscapes of Southeast Asia are the native habitat of the Bee Shrimp, which is where the Shadow Panda Shrimp were selectively bred. These remarkable creatures are found in Southern China, where they thrive in small tannin-stained rivers and streams covered with fallen leaves from trees and an abundance of plants. The substrate in their natural environment consists of a mixture of small rocks and sand with small patches of moss, providing a perfect habitat for these stunning creatures to thrive in.

Breeding

Shadow Panda Shrimps are known to breed successfully in a home aquarium, provided that the water conditions are optimal. When the female shrimp is "berried" or has eggs ready for fertilization, the saddle shape on her upper body becomes more pronounced, and the eggs become visible underneath her abdomen. You can observe the female shrimp tumbling her eggs frequently during this period.

The gestation period for Shadow Panda Shrimp lasts approximately 30 to 35 days, during which the female carries around 20 to 30 eggs. Unlike some species, the babies of Shadow Panda Shrimp do not go through the larval stage. Instead, fully developed shrimplets are released, marking the successful completion of the breeding process.

Shadow Panda Shrimp are known to produce a variety of different species, including Wine Red Pandas, Black King Kongs, Blue Bolt, Mischling, CRS, and CBS shrimp. While it's possible to mix them with other Caridina Cantonensis species, the results of such mixing with Tigers, Bees, and other species are not widely available. Breeding Shadow Panda Shrimp is a fascinating and rewarding experience for aquarists. Proper care and attention to their unique needs can help ensure the successful breeding and survival of these remarkable creatures in your home aquarium.

Diet & Feeding

Shadow Panda Shrimp's primary diet consists of biofilm and algae, which they gladly graze on. However, it's crucial to supplement their diet with sinking pellets, algae wafers, and flake food to ensure that they receive a balanced and varied diet. As a special treat, you can offer your shrimp some vegetable matter, such as blanched spinach, courgette, or broccoli, which they will relish.

Adding dried Indian Almond leaves, Mulberry leaves, or Oak leaves to your aquarium is also highly beneficial. As these leaves slowly deteriorate, biofilm will form on them, providing an additional source of food for your shrimps. Additionally, these leaves help to keep the pH level in the aquarium low, promoting the overall health and well-being of your Shadow Panda Shrimp.

Videos

Shadow Panda Shrimp Thumbnail

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