Hinomaru Crystal Black Shrimp Caridina 2cm

Overview

The Hinomaru Crystal Black Shrimp is a high-grade bee shrimp with a mostly white body, black head and a round black spot on the back recalling the Japanese flag. Developed in Japan from wild bee shrimp of southern China, it needs soft, acidic, stable water. It suits dedicated shrimp keepers running a mature, shrimp-only tank.

• Sold as: Pack of 6 (minimum order quantity)
• Adult Size: Around 2.5–3 cm (1–1.2 in); females larger
• Lifespan: 1.5–2 years

Origin

• Native to: Captive-bred in Japan; ancestor from southern China
• Habitat: Cool, soft, acidic forest streams

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous grazer
• Preferred Foods: Biofilm, Caridina shrimp food, blanched spinach, bee pollen, Indian almond leaves
• Feeding Habits: Tiny pinch every two days; biofilm does the rest; remove leftovers

Tank Mates

• Best with: Other crystal shrimp, Otocinclus, small snails
• Avoid: Most fish, especially barbs, loaches and cichlids

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Completely peaceful
• Territoriality: None; keep in groups of ten or more

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
• Challenges: Demands soft, acidic, very stable water; sensitive to copper

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, soft and acidic
• Temperature: 20–24°C (68–75°F)
• pH: 5.8–6.8
• Hardness: 4–6 dGH
• Flow: Slow, sponge filter ideal
• Tank Size: Minimum 40 litres; mature shrimp-only tank with active soil substrate

Final Notes

Set up a matured tank with active soil and remineralised RO water before buying; crystals do not tolerate hard tap water or parameter swings. They cross with crystal red and tiger shrimp, so keep lines apart, and offspring do not all inherit the hinomaru pattern. Breeding is otherwise straightforward with no larval stage. Keep copper out and temperatures cool, and this elegant black-and-white shrimp rewards careful husbandry.