Red Galaxy Pinto Shrimp
Species Profile
The Red Galaxy Pinto Shrimp is a variety that represents the peak of selective breeding. These freshwater shrimp are famous for their intricate "Galaxy" head markings paired with a "Pinto" striped or spotted body pattern. The deep ruby-red pigmentation contrasted against the opaque white markings makes them a stunning focal point in any shrimp tank. Because of their complex hybrid heritage, each shrimp features a unique distribution of spots and stripes, adding a layer of character to your colony.
Red Galaxy Pintos are active and social, though they require a disciplined approach to water quality. As a hybrid, they are more sensitive to parameter shifts than standard freshwater shrimp. They are best suited for a dedicated shrimp aquarium with a mature ecosystem and an active buffering substrate to maintain the stable, acidic environment they need to display their most vibrant red hues.
**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 unsexed juveniles.
- Elite hybrid Caridina variety prized for its unique pattern variations across every individual specimen.
- Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
- Peaceful, social behavior for community aquariums.
Care Specifications
- Maintain stable, soft, acidic water chemistry 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.
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 cantonensis |
| Common Name(s) | Red Galaxy Pinto Shrimp, Galaxy Fishbone (Red), Red Pinto |
| Care Difficulty | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Adult Size | 1.0" (2.5 cm) |
| Diet | Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Scavenger |
| Minimum Tank Size | 5 Gallons (10–20+ Gallons Recommended) |
| Temperature Range | 68°F–72°F (20°C–22°C) |
| pH Range | 5.5–6.7 |
| General Hardness (GH) | 3–6 dGH |
| Carbonate Hardness (KH) | 0–1 dKH |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | 90–120 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 Red Galaxy Pinto Shrimp 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 Red Galaxy Pinto Shrimp require precise soft-water conditions (low 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.