Shadow Black King Kong Mosura Shrimp
Species Overview
Common Name: Black King Kong Mosura, Shadow Black King Kong Mosura, Black Panda Shrimp, Shadow King Kong Shrimp
Scientific Name: Caridina Cantonensis
Genus: Caridina
Wild Origin: Selective Breed
Adult Size: 1 in
**Note: All livestock orders will come carefully packaged with solid wall Styrofoam insulation and shipped via 1-day shipping only. No additional insulation is needed for your livestock.
Shadow Black King Kong were selectively bred by crossing Blue Bolt shrimp with Black King Kong Shrimp. This unique lineage results in the "Shadow" effect, which is a distinct blue iridescent hue that glows beneath the white pigment of the shrimp. The "Mosura" grade is highly coveted, defined by a primarily white body and a striking black "crown" or "mask". This combination offers a sophisticated, high-contrast look that stands out in a shrimp tank.
As aquatic pets, these freshwater shrimp are tireless scavengers that spend their time grazing on biofilm and algae, helping to maintain the biological balance of your aquarium. Because they are a highly bred Taiwan Bee variety, they are more sensitive than standard shrimp and require a disciplined approach to water stability. They are best suited for the intermediate to advanced hobbyist who can provide the soft, acidic conditions necessary for their vibrant colors and health.
Key Features & Important Notes
- Tank raised specimen
- Unsexed juveniles
- To increase survival rates, please allow 2-3 business days after an order is placed to properly prepare live animal shipments.
Recommended Water Parameters
- Temperature Range: 68–74°F
- pH: 7.1-7.6
- TDS: 150 to 210 ppm
- GH: 7 to 10 dGH
- KH: 2-4 dKH
Recommended Tank Size
5+ gallons, minimum. We recommend a 10–20+ gallon setup for easier parameter management, as smaller volumes are more susceptible to the chemical shifts that can stress sensitive aquarium shrimp.
Diet
Omnivorous. Shadow Mosuras primarily feed on naturally occurring biofilm and diatoms. Supplement their diet with high-quality plant-based pellets, bee pollen, and blanched vegetables. Mineral-rich foods are essential to maintain their opaque white and blue-shadow pigmentation.
Breeding
Shadow Black King Kong Mosuras are eager breeders once established in stable conditions. Sexing becomes easier as they mature; females are larger and exhibit a broader underbelly for carrying eggs. To ensure a successful colony, we recommend starting with 8–10 specimens to guarantee a mix of males and females.
The breeding cycle begins when a fertile female molts and releases pheromones, prompting the males into an active search. Once "berried," she will carry the eggs for approximately 30 days. To maximize fry survival, ensure the tank has plenty of hiding spots, like mosses or Cholla wood. Always leave molted shells in the tank so the colony can recycle the calcium for their next growth stage.
Team Buce Plant Tips
If you're new to the hobby, learn the fundamentals with our Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp Care Guide. Before introducing your new livestock into a new tank, learn about the perfect drip rate and timing in 7 Easy Steps to Drip Acclimate Shrimp and Fish. Whether you need active soil or inert sand, you can find the perfect fit to stabilize your parameters in our Best Substrate for Shrimp Guide. When your tank is balanced and your colony is thriving, check out our step-by-step breakdown on How to Breed Freshwater Shrimp.