Orange Eye Blue Tiger Shrimp, scientifically known as Caridina mariae ‘Blue Tiger’. These striking shrimp are renowned for their vivid blue coloration, accented with mesmerizing orange eyes, creating a captivating contrast that stands out in any aquascape. Perfect for both beginner and experienced aquarists, the Orange Eye Blue Tiger Shrimp not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your tank but also helps maintain a clean and balanced environment by grazing on algae and detritus. Elevate your aquarium’s beauty and functionality with the addition of these stunning and diligent invertebrates.

Care Guide:

Aquarium Setup:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended to provide sufficient space and stable water parameters. 5 gallon is also manageable as long as you are confident in your care knowledge.
• Substrate: Use a dark substrate to accentuate the shrimp’s blue coloration. Substrates specifically designed for shrimp, such as those that buffer pH, are ideal.
• Decor: Provide plenty of hiding spots with plants, mosses, driftwood, and shrimp-specific caves. Live plants such as Java moss, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne can enhance the habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable. Avoid excessive light to prevent stress and promote algae growth, which serves as a natural food source.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 68-78°F (20-26°C).
• pH Level: Keep the pH level slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.5-7.5.
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water with a GH (General Hardness) of 4-6 dGH and KH (Carbonate Hardness) of 0-2 dKH is ideal.
• Filtration: Use a gentle sponge filter to provide aeration and filtration without creating strong currents that can stress the shrimp.

Diet:

• Omnivorous Diet: Orange Eye Blue Tiger Shrimp are omnivores and will consume a variety of foods. A balanced diet includes high-quality shrimp pellets or granules.
• Supplements: Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables (such as zucchini and spinach), algae wafers, and occasional protein sources like daphnia or brine shrimp.
• Natural Grazing: They will also graze on biofilm, algae, and detritus in the tank, helping to keep the aquarium clean.

Behavior and Compatibility:

• Peaceful Nature: These shrimp are peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive tank mates.
• Ideal Tankmates: Suitable companions include other dwarf shrimp species, small tetras, rasboras, and snails.
• Avoid Aggression: Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may prey on them, such as cichlids or large barbs.

Breeding:

• Breeding Conditions: Breeding Orange Eye Blue Tiger Shrimp is possible under the right conditions. Provide a stable environment with optimal water parameters.
• Mating: Females carry eggs under their tails for about 3-4 weeks before releasing fully-formed baby shrimp.
• Hatchlings: Ensure plenty of hiding spots and fine-leaved plants for the baby shrimp to seek refuge and find food.

Maintenance:

• Regular Water Changes: Perform regular water changes of 10-20% weekly to maintain high water quality and stable parameters.
• Monitoring: Regularly test water parameters to ensure they remain within the ideal range.
• Cleaning: Remove uneaten food to prevent water quality issues and clean the substrate as needed.

Health Considerations:

• Sensitivity: Orange Eye Blue Tiger Shrimp are sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters and poor water quality. Ensure gradual acclimatization and maintain a stable environment.
• Disease Prevention: Avoid using copper-based medications in the tank, as copper is toxic to shrimp. Quarantine new additions to prevent the introduction of diseases.

Note: The Orange Eye Blue Tiger Shrimp is a captivating and rewarding species to keep. Their striking appearance and beneficial algae-grazing habits make them a fantastic addition to any well-maintained freshwater aquarium. With proper care and a stable environment, they will thrive, adding vibrant color and lively activity to your aquatic setup.

Enhance your aquarium with the vivid beauty and hardworking nature of the Orange Eye Blue Tiger Shrimp. Order now and enjoy the unique elegance and utility of these stunning invertebrates in your home aquarium.