Introducing the Black Crystal Shrimp, a fascinating addition to any freshwater shrimp tank. Here's everything you need to know about these stunning shrimp:

• Appearance: Black Crystal Shrimp, also known as Black Bee Shrimp, are prized for their striking black and white coloration. They feature a glossy black body with white bands or stripes running across their exoskeleton. Their unique pattern adds a touch of elegance to any aquarium, making them a sought-after choice for shrimp enthusiasts. At a size of 1-1.5cm (0.4-0.6 inches), these shrimp are small but full of character.

• Water Parameters: Black Crystal Shrimp thrive in stable water conditions. Maintain a temperature range of 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F) and a pH level of 6.5 to 7.5. It's crucial to provide clean, well-filtered water with low ammonia and nitrate levels to ensure their health and vibrant coloration.

• Tank Setup: Create a suitable environment for your Black Crystal Shrimp by providing them with plenty of hiding places and surfaces to explore. Dense vegetation, mosses, and driftwood make excellent additions to their tank, offering them hiding spots and surfaces for grazing on biofilm. Ensure the aquarium has a secure lid or mesh cover to prevent shrimp from escaping, as they are known to be skilled climbers.

• Feeding: Black Crystal Shrimp are omnivorous and will happily consume a varied diet. Offer them high-quality shrimp-specific pellets or granules as their staple food. Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or kale. Additionally, they will relish microorganisms and biofilm that naturally grow in a well-established tank. It's recommended to feed them small amounts of food multiple times a day.

• Compatibility: Black Crystal Shrimp are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful freshwater shrimp species. It's best to avoid housing them with aggressive or larger fish that may prey on or stress the shrimp. Good tank mates include other dwarf shrimp species, small peaceful fish like rasboras or tetras, and snails.

• Breeding: Black Crystal Shrimp can reproduce readily in a suitable environment. The females will carry eggs under their abdomen until they hatch into miniature shrimp. To encourage breeding, maintain stable water conditions and provide a well-rounded diet. Ensure the presence of mosses or other dense vegetation where shrimp can deposit their eggs. Separating the berried female into a breeding or nursery tank can increase the survival rate of the shrimplets.

• Care and Maintenance: Regular water maintenance is essential for the well-being of Black Crystal Shrimp. Perform regular water changes of 10-20% every week to maintain water quality and remove any accumulated waste. Avoid using medications or chemicals that may harm or stress the shrimp. Monitor water parameters regularly and address any issues promptly.

Black Crystal Shrimp are not only visually striking but also serve a beneficial purpose in aquariums by aiding in algae control and scavenging for food particles. Their small size and peaceful nature make them a wonderful addition to shrimp-focused tanks or community aquariums. Enjoy the beauty and elegance of these black and white jewels as they gracefully navigate their aquatic habitat.