Shrimp Name: Sulawesi Harlequin Shrimp (Caridina cf. spongicola)

Origin:Indonesia

Description: Has distinct markings and coloration with a small body frame. The size of the Harlequin shrimp almost reflects its tenderness and fragility. The Sulawesi shrimp has dark red and white markings. Their size is small ranging between 3 – 3.5cm. This particular shrimp is shy and does not easily show itself in the open. Will readily feed on algae, flake food and dead leaves.

Water Parameters: The water temperature for the Sulawesi region shrimp in general should not deep below 25°C. Average temperatures ranging around 25.5-29 °C will suffice. They prefer warmer temperatures and will most likely be stressed if the water cools down. The pH range is also something to look out for. When housing any type of shrimp including Sulawesi shrimp it is recommended to try to emulate their natural environment as this not only reduces the stress on the inverts but encourages them to breed and roam around freely. A high pH range of 7.0 – 8.5 is recommended.

Sexing: Since Sulawesi shrimp are relatively new to the hobby it is difficult to sex them. The general rule to note when keeping shrimp is that most of the time the larger shrimp tend to be female and the smaller ones are usually the males. In some cases the females tend to have a colorful appearance whilst the males have a faded or near transparent appearance. It is also very difficult to sex shrimp when they are young.

Breeding:Large numbers of any shrimp species are encouraged in a tank in order to promote successful breeding. They are born alive or rather they are a high order species. Young ones are like miniature adults.

Compatibility:They are compatible with any shrimp. As they are small, these shrimp should not be housed with any larger fish or aggressive types.