Shrimp Name: Rudolph Shrimp, Red Nosed Shrimp, Rhino Shrimp, Rocket Shrimp, Red Striped Shrimp, Mosquito Shrimp (caridina gracilirostris.)

Origin: South-East Asia, India

Description: I have very distinct markings and it is impossible to mistake me for another shrimp. I am called Rudolph because of my red nose yet my nose is almost shaped like a Rhino. The nose is long by any shrimp standards. I am a freshwater shrimp and if properly acclimated I adjust well to brackish conditions. I am almost transparent in appearance but not like a Ghost Shrimp. I have some thin red and yellow stripes running along my body. I am a pretty long shrimp with an average mature size ranging 2.5-3.5 cm. My diet consists of algae, fish flake food and some pellets. Many shrimp are scavengers and Red Nosed Shrimp are no exception.  I am very active shrimp that enjoys large numbers of my own kind.

Water Parameters: My delicate appearance calls for regular water changes. Preferable pH range is 6.5-7.5. In order to avoid the accumulation of nitrates and ammonia, a mature and well planted tank. Soft to hard water is fine for Red Nosed Shrimp.

Sexing: Unlike most of the shrimp, the males are larger and tend to be more colorful than their female counterparts.

Breeding: Will readily breed but brackish water is essential to the development of larvae. A large number if Rudolph shrimp us necessary in order to successfully breed these species.

Compatibility: Are easy going and will not cross breed with any other shrimp species. Avoid any aggressive fish such as cichlids or they will become a fast snack.