Black Calceo Shrimp

Black Calceo Shrimp are an eye-catching ornamental freshwater shrimp variety prized for their distinctive contrasting colouration and intricate patterns. Their dark markings create a striking appearance against lighter areas of the body, making them particularly impressive in planted aquariums and dedicated shrimp displays.

Black Calceo are a Caridina shrimp variety and generally require more specialised water conditions than common Neocaridina shrimp. They are best suited to established shrimp aquariums where soft, slightly acidic water and stable parameters can be maintained.

Their unique appearance and selective breeding make them an excellent choice for experienced shrimp keepers and enthusiasts looking to develop a premium Caridina collection.

• Common Name: Black Calceo Shrimp
• Genus: Caridina
• Variety: Black Calceo
• Adult Size: Approximately 2.5–3cm
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Moderate to advanced
• Minimum Tank Size: Approximately 20 litres+
• Temperature: Approximately 20–24°C
• pH: Approximately 5.5–6.5
• Water: Soft, slightly acidic freshwater
• Diet: Omnivorous / biofilm grazer
• Aquarium Level: Substrate, plants and hardscape
• Social Behaviour: Peaceful colony species
• Lifespan: Approximately 1–2 years with appropriate care

Feeding

Black Calceo Shrimp spend much of their time naturally grazing on biofilm and microorganisms throughout a mature aquarium.

Their diet can be supplemented with:

• Premium Caridina shrimp foods
• Quality shrimp pellets
• Spirulina-based foods
• Suitable algae-based foods
• Blanched vegetables
• Indian Almond Leaves and suitable botanicals
• Biofilm-promoting foods

Feed sparingly, as excessive feeding can quickly reduce water quality.

Aquarium Setup

Black Calceo Shrimp perform best in a mature, stable aquarium designed around the requirements of Caridina shrimp.

A suitable setup may include:

• Active buffering shrimp substrate
• Remineralised RO water where required
• Gentle sponge filtration
• Aquarium mosses
• Live plants
• Driftwood and natural hardscape
• Indian Almond Leaves and suitable botanicals
• Plenty of established biofilm
• Stable temperature and water chemistry

Consistency is particularly important. Avoid sudden changes in temperature, pH, hardness or other water parameters.

Water Quality

Black Calceo Shrimp can be more sensitive to unsuitable or rapidly changing water conditions than common Cherry Shrimp.

For best results, regularly monitor:

• Temperature
• pH
• GH
• KH
• Ammonia
• Nitrite
• Nitrate
• TDS where appropriate

Ammonia and nitrite should remain at 0 ppm, with nitrate maintained as low as practical through appropriate feeding, filtration and regular aquarium maintenance.

Breeding

Black Calceo Shrimp can reproduce in freshwater when provided with suitable and stable conditions.

Females carry fertilised eggs beneath their abdomen until fully formed miniature shrimp hatch.

Dense mosses, plants and mature biofilm provide valuable shelter and feeding areas for young shrimp.

Selective breeding and careful colony management may be required to maintain desirable Black Calceo patterns and colour quality over successive generations.

Tank Mates

For breeding and maintaining high-quality shrimp, a dedicated Caridina shrimp aquarium is generally recommended.

Compatible inhabitants may include:

• Other appropriately selected Caridina shrimp
• Peaceful snails
• Very carefully selected shrimp-safe nano species

Even small fish may consume newly hatched shrimp, so dedicated shrimp-only aquariums generally provide the best survival rates.

Important Information

Black Calceo Shrimp should be carefully acclimated when introduced to a new aquarium.

Shrimp are particularly sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry and may also be harmed by aquarium medications containing copper or other ingredients unsafe for crustaceans.

Always confirm that aquarium treatments, fertilisers and other additives are shrimp-safe before use.

• Australia-wide shipping available where permitted
• Shrimp are carefully packed for safe transport
• Local pickup available by appointment from Fins 'N' Feathers
• Shipping availability may depend on destination, weather conditions and applicable biosecurity restrictions

Live Arrival

Please inspect livestock immediately upon arrival. If there is an issue with your shrimp, contact Fins 'N' Feathers as soon as possible and within our applicable live-arrival period, providing clear photos of the shrimp in the unopened transport bag where required.

Live shrimp cannot be returned for change of mind.

Black Calceo Shrimp are selectively bred live animals and individual variation is expected. Pattern, black coverage, colour intensity, size and overall grade may vary between individual shrimp and may continue to develop as they mature.