Serpent shrimp

Caridina serpentina

Family : Atyidae

InvertebrateFreshwatershrimp

Small freshwater shrimp with an elongated, serpentine pattern, ideal for planted aquariums.

Popularity
Freshwater shrimp
group keeping
Availability
Common in shops
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern

Description

Caridina serpentina is a freshwater shrimp native to Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is distinguished by its slender, elongated body often adorned with snake-like patterns. It grows to about 2-3 cm and is highly valued in aquariums for its algae and debris cleaning abilities. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water with slightly acidic to neutral pH and moderate temperature. It is a peaceful species that lives in groups.

Habitat

Region :

Freshwater lakes and rivers, often among rocks and vegetation

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH6.57.5
GH48 °dGH
KH25 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Omnivore
Min. tank
20 L
Min. group
6
Adult size
3 cm
Lifespan
2 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Eggs hatch into miniature shrimp; requires stable water conditions for successful breeding.

Care notes

Maintain stable water with temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. Sensitive to nitrates (max 20 ppm) and phosphates (max 0.5 ppm). Provide hiding places (moss, driftwood) and a varied diet (algae, blanched vegetables, shrimp food).

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References