Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp

Introduction To Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp

Cardinal Shrimp are the smaller tropical species of the dwarf shrimp that originate from the lakes of the Sulawesi region of Indonesia. While a little slighter than a lot of their contemporaries, Cardinal Shrimp are a long lived species that survive an average of about 6 months to 1 year longer than that of the average dwarf shrimp. The bright red coloration of this gorgeous species have made them an instant hit in the aquarium hobby, and their relative ease of care and active lifestyle have helped to retain their immense popularity. While somewhat shy at the earliest, an established group of Cardinal Shrimp will turn out to be quite active and exhibit various interesting social behaviors that are very pleasing to watch.

• English name: Cardinal Shrimp, Sulawesi Cardinal, Wine Red Cardinal, Light Red Cardinal
• Scientific name: Caridina Dennerli
• Origin: Sulawesi
• Size: 0.75″ to 1″ (1.9 – 2.5 cm)
• Water temperature: 78 -85F
• Water Parameters: PH Range 7.0-8.5, TDS 80-140
• Breeding Rate: Low-Medium
• Behavior: Non-aggressive
• Difficulty: Hard

The Cardinal Shrimp’s History

Native to the Sulawesi region in Indonesia, the Cardinal Shrimp was introduced to the hobby in late 2007. There have been endeavors overseas to keep and breed these gorgeous, but small shrimp. The Sulawesi region comprises two ancient lakes, Lake Poso and the five-lake Malili system. These lakes have also produced numerous other new species with vivacious colors and patterns and these breeders are trying to institute into the hobby.

Care for the Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp

Care for the Cardinal shrimp or Caridina sp “Cardinal” is much similar to most other Dwarf Shrimp with some exceptions. This shrimp needs a slightly higher PH and water temperatures than most other Dwarf Shrimp. Most Dwarf Shrimp from the Sulawesi region need water with a high pH but the water must not be hard. Once adapted to the aquarium, it is much easier to take care of the Cardinal Shrimp.

Diet & Eating habits

The Sulawesi Cardinal Shrimp have no exceptional necessities when it comes to diet. They eat the similar types of food that the majority of Dwarf Shrimps eats. Cardinal Shrimps are omnivorous and algae is a staple in their diet. When kept in significant colonies, it is imperative to complement their feedings. Fish food and blanched vegetables (boiled until soft) make great supplements.

Grading and Variations of Cardinal Shrimp

The Sulawesi Shrimp can range from a wine red (almost black) to a light red coloration, with blue or white or dots across its body and white maxillipeds.

Cardinal Shrimp Breeding

Breeding Dwarf Shrimp is quite an easy process. As long as the water parameters of this species are met, the food source is stable, and there is a male and female, they will probably breed. One distinguished difference between the Cardinal Shrimp and other high grade Dwarf Shrimp is that they have slighter broods. Creating a colony takes longer since Cardinal shrimp don’t breed as often as other dwarf shrimp.

Behavior of Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp

Due to their smaller size, Cardinal Shrimp tends to be a bit shy when initially introduced to an established aquarium. Once these prominent species become accustomed to their new surroundings, they begin to exhibit the behaviors similar to the majority of other Dwarf Shrimp. They scavenge the substrate and plants for food continually and will often be seen exhibiting rather social behavior.

Cardinal Shrimp for Sale

Cardinal Shrimp come directly from the wild; you will not find these little guys in fish stores (yet!). Breeders are starting to create colonies of cardinal shrimp within the United States to make them more resilient with our water. Most vendors are importers but some do actually buy or setup 1st and 2nd generation aquariums. Check out the information below for available vendors of the Cardinal Shrimp.