Orange Eye Blue Tiger
Species Profile
The Orange Eye Blue Tiger (OEBT) is one of the most mesmerizing varieties in the shrimp hobby. It is a genetic morph achieved by extensive selective breeding of the Caridina Tiger shrimp. Good quality specimens have deep blue bodies, dark tiger stripes, and bright orange eyes. The highest-grade specimens are solid blue shrimp that eliminate or greatly diminish the Caridina Tiger striping. Lower grades may have translucent bodies, patchy patterns, and brown eyes.
As aquatic pets, OEBTs are active scavengers that bring a unique "alien" aesthetic to the shrimp aquarium. They are a soft-water species, thriving in slightly acidic environments with zero carbonate hardness. Because of their distinct look and the intensive line-breeding required to maintain their color, they are a prized centerpiece for any dedicated shrimp tank.
**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.
Key Features & Notes
- Tank-raised specimens displaying stunning blue bodies with glowing orange eyes.
- Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
- Provides an ideal centerpiece choice as peaceful dwarf shrimp for aquariums and low-bioload setups.
Care Specifications
- Maintain stable, soft, acidic water conditions using an active buffering substrate to support sensitive Caridina health.
- Keep water parameters strictly free of copper-based medications or heavy metals.
- Supplement their diet with plant-based shrimp pellets, spirulina, and blanched vegetables to ensure proper minerals for molting when natural algae is low.
- Line genetics produce offspring of varying color grades, making culling and selection essential if maintaining deep blue lines.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to maintain stable parameters to ensure a healthy, thriving colony!
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Caridina mariae "Blue Tiger" |
| Common Name(s) | Orange Eye Blue Tiger, OEBT, OE Blue Tiger Shrimp |
| Care Difficulty | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Adult Size | 1.2" (3.0 cm) |
| Diet | Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Scavenger |
| Minimum Tank Size | 5–10 Gallons |
| Temperature Range | 68°F–74°F (20°C–23°C) |
| pH Range | 6.2–6.6 |
| General Hardness (GH) | 4–5 dGH |
| Carbonate Hardness (KH) | 0–1 dKH (Best at 0) |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | 120–140 ppm |
| Lifespan | 1–2 Years |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I properly acclimate my new freshwater shrimp to prevent shock?
Dwarf shrimp are sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters and total dissolved solids (TDS). Always drip acclimate new arrivals over 1 to 2 hours before releasing them into your tank. Follow our step-by-step tutorial in 7 Easy Steps to Drip Acclimate Shrimp and Fish for the perfect drip rate setup.
2. What substrate is best for keeping dwarf shrimp healthy?
It depends on the species! Neocaridina species thrive in inert substrates like gravel or sand, while Caridina species like Orange Eye Blue Tigers require active aquasoils that buffer pH down and pull KH near zero. Learn how to select the right foundation for your aquarium shrimp in our Best Substrate for Shrimp Guide.
3. How do I get my colony to start breeding?
As long as water parameters remain stable, temperatures stay in the low 70s, and adequate food is present, dwarf shrimp will breed naturally. To maximize baby shrimplet survival rates and learn how to support berried females, read our complete guide on How to Breed Freshwater Shrimp.
4. Are dwarf shrimp easy to care for if I am a beginner?
While Neocaridina species are great for beginners, Caridina species like Orange Eye Blue Tigers require precise soft-water conditions (zero KH, low TDS, and active buffering soil). If you are just starting out, get a complete overview of parameters, diet, and setup requirements in our Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp Care Guide.