Species Profile
Shadow Black King Kong Shrimp 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.
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.
**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 displaying the coveted Mosura pattern.
- Elite Taiwan Bee strain prized for its high-grade pigmentation and high-contrast visual appeal.
- Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
- Peaceful, social behavior makes them an ideal choice for 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) |
Black King Kong Mosura, Shadow Black King Kong Mosura, Shadow King Kong |
| Care Difficulty |
Intermediate to Advanced |
| Adult Size |
1.0" (2.5 cm) |
| Diet |
Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Scavenger |
| Minimum Tank Size |
5 Gallons (10ā20+ Gallons Recommended) |
| Temperature Range |
68Ā°Fā74Ā°F (20Ā°Cā23Ā°C) |
| pH Range |
7.1ā7.6 |
| General Hardness (GH) |
7ā10 dGH |
| Carbonate Hardness (KH) |
2ā4 dKH |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) |
150ā210 ppm |
| Lifespan |
1ā2 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 Shadow Black King Kong Mosura 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 Shadow Black King Kong Mosuras 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.
