Black King Kong Shrimp

Black King Kong Shrimp

Caridina cantonensis var.

Family: Atyidae • Origin: Various

Black King Kong Shrimp (Caridina cantonensis var.) is a peaceful shrimp reaching 1.2 inches. Keep in groups of 6+. Minimum tank: 5 gallons.

Min Tank
5 gal
Max Size
1.2"
Temperature
68-74°F
pH
5.5-6.5
Lifespan
2 years
School Size
6+
Swim Level
bottom
Hardness
5-15 dGH
peacefulexpertomnivoreschooling

Is Black King Kong Shrimp Right for Your Tank?

Black King Kong Shrimp is rated "expert" (4/5) — best for experienced aquarists. They have specific requirements that make them challenging for beginners. At just 5 gallons minimum, they work well in nano tanks and smaller setups.

With a peaceful temperament, Black King Kong Shrimp makes a great community fish. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species of similar size. This is a schooling species — keep at least 6 together, or they may become stressed and display abnormal behavior. Expected lifespan: 2 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with Black King Kong Shrimp

Keeping fewer than 6 together

Black King Kong Shrimp is a schooling species — they need a group of at least 6 to feel secure. Lone or paired individuals become stressed, hide constantly, and may develop health issues or aggression.

Putting them in a tank under 5 gallons

While 5 gallons is the minimum, nano tanks require more frequent water changes and leave less room for error. A slightly larger tank (8 gal) is much more forgiving.

Care Tips

  • Max size: 1.2"
  • Temp: 68-74°F
  • pH: 5.5-6.5
  • Schooling: keep 6+
  • peaceful temperament

Feeding: Standard omnivore diet appropriate for Atyidae.

Compatibility Notes: Typical peaceful Atyidae species.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

Tank Requirements

Minimum Tank Size
5 gallons
Recommended Tank Size
8 gallons
Swimming Level
bottom
Minimum School Size
6+ fish

Water Parameters

Temperature
6874°F
pH Range
5.56.5
Hardness (dGH)
515
Water Type
freshwater

Behavior & Temperament

Temperament
peaceful
Aggression Level
1/5
Schooling
Yes
Territorial
No
Fin Nipper
No
Predatory
No
Diet Type
omnivore
Growth Rate
moderate

Typical peaceful Atyidae species.

Breeding

Breeding Type
egg layer
Breeding Difficulty
difficult
Lifespan
2 years

Ideal For

5 gallon

Compatible Tank Mates

View all →

Similar Species