Freshwater Aquarium Invertebrates - Cherry Shrimp
Cherry Shrimp
Red Cherry shrimp (Neocaridina denticulata red var.) are freshwater aquarium invertebrates that originally came from freshwater streams and ponds in Taiwan. The water is fresh and the temperature is usually between 23 to 30 degrees C . Cherry shrimp stay bright red all the time, but only if they have sufficient amounts of natural or artificial light. For example, after shipping, they may appear light gray or black in color. After being placed in a water grass or other aquatic plant aquarium with sufficient overhead light, they will return to their bright red color within an hour. The bright red color of Cherry Shrimp is very beautiful against the green colors of aquatic plants, and they are great tank cleaners.
Invertebrates - Cherry Shrimp Color
Cherry shrimp will also lose some of their coloring during the time when they shed their shells. The cherry shrimp becomes light pink to whitish pink at that time. Shell shedding happens around mid August in Taiwan. As these are a newly discover shrimp (summer 2002), they have not been observed for a lengthy amount of time.
Cherry Shrimp - Aquarium Setup
Red Cherry Shrimp have a tolerance which extends from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius . At more than 30 degrees, they will become sick. The most appropriate temperature range for them is between 20 to 26 degrees Celsius.
These shrimp are also very sensitive to metal compounds, particularly copper. If tanks have been cleaned with disinfectants that contain metal compounds or copper, cherry shrimp may become sick and die. So, cherry shrimp should not be exposed to any chemicals used to control ich. Also, if the nitrate values are more than 25 mg/l (25 ppm), they cannot survive.
Cherry shrimp are most active at night. Turn off the light and feed them in the evening. Feed them algivorous or thread algae.
Freshwater Aquarium Invertebrates - Florida Blue Crayfish
The Florida Blue Crayfish, Procambarus alleni, grows up to 15 cm in length and can tolerate temperatures from 10 - 22 degrees Celsius (50 - 70 Fahrenheit) so it is recommended that the aquarium not be heated. These blue crayfish need oxygen, so an air stone at the bottom of the aquarium is recommended. The aquarium should be completely covered. Crayfish will climb out of the tank and then die of dehydration.
Florida Blue Crayfish - Feeding
Florida Blue Crayfish do best on shrimp pellets and live blackworms. Each crayfish needs a secure place within their aquarium, to feel secure. Crayfish will seek this secure spot on a regular basis, especially during and right after moulting.
Florida Blue Crayfish - Tankmates:
There are very few safe tankmates for Florida Blue Crayfish. This is because most tankmates either get eaten by the crayfish, or eat the crayfish. Crayfish are especially vulnerable when their shells are soft, and when they are weakened, right after moulting. Cichlids are noted for eventually dining on crayfish. Also, many tankmates get ruled out because they require tropical temperatures. Crayfish generally need room temperatures.
Freshwater Aquarium Invertebrates - Fan Shrimp
Fan hrimp
Freshwater Aquarium Invertebrates - Malawi Blue Crab
Malawi Blue Crab