What size tank does a Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp need?

Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp needs a minimum of 5 gallons, with 8 gallons recommended. They are bottom swimmers. Keep in groups of 6+.

Is Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp good for beginners?

Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp is rated "expert" difficulty (4/5). Best for experienced aquarists.

What fish are compatible with Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp?

Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp is peaceful. Compatible tank mates include other peaceful fish with similar water parameters (pH 7.5-8.5, temp 78-86°F).

Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp

Caridina dennerli

Family: Atyidae • Origin: Various

Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp (Caridina dennerli) is a peaceful shrimp reaching 1 inches. Keep in groups of 6+. Minimum tank: 5 gallons.

Min Tank

5 gal

Max Size

Temperature

78-86°F

7.5-8.5

Lifespan

2 years

School Size

Swim Level

bottom

Hardness

5-15 dGH

peacefulexpertomnivoreschooling

Is Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp Right for Your Tank?

Cardinal Sulawesi 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, Cardinal Sulawesi 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 Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp

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Keeping fewer than 6 together

Cardinal Sulawesi 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.

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Relying on a heater without a thermometer

Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp needs 78–86°F. Heaters malfunction or drift over time — always use a separate thermometer to verify. Temperature swings of even 3–4°F can trigger stress and disease, particularly ich.

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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.