Extreme Black King Kong Shrimp

Caridina logemanni

Also known as EBKK, Extreme BKK

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Atyidae

The Extreme Black King Kong Shrimp is a highly selective bred variant of Caridina logemanni, prized for its deep jet-black coloration with minimal red or white markings, creating a dramatic solid-black appearance. This premium variety represents the darkest end of the King Kong shrimp spectrum and is sought after by advanced hobbyists for its striking aesthetic and genetic stability. The intense black coloration makes them visually stunning in planted aquascapes and shrimp-focused setups.

Where it's from

Recorded as introduced in Norway

At a glance

Size: 1.5 in; 4 cm
Min tank: 10 gal; 38 L
Group: 10+
Temp: 72–75°F; 22–24°C
pH: 5.5-6.5
GH: 71–107 ppm; 4–6 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 1.5-2 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Extreme Black King Kong Shrimp are detritivores that graze on biofilm, algae, and decaying plant matter throughout the day. Supplement with high-quality shrimp-specific foods such as Shirakura Black Label, Mosura Shrimp King, or blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini) 2-3 times weekly. Avoid overfeeding, as uneaten food degrades water quality in small tanks.

Behavior

These shrimp are active grazers, constantly foraging along substrate and plants for food and biofilm. They are sensitive to water parameter fluctuations and may exhibit stress through color fading or reduced activity. Molting occurs every 4-6 weeks; provide adequate calcium and minerals to support successful shell hardening, and avoid disturbance during this vulnerable period.

Breeding

Extreme Black King Kong Shrimp require stable, acidic soft water (pH 5.5-6.5, GH 4-6) to breed successfully; they are more demanding than Neocaridina varieties. Females produce small batches of 20-30 shrimplets that develop in the mother's saddle before release as miniature adults. Breeding success depends on pristine water conditions, consistent temperature, and minimal stress; selective breeding for black coloration can reduce fertility in some lines.

Tank mates

See all 5

Otocinclus

Small, peaceful algae eater that does not predate on shrimp

excellent

Ember Tetra

Tiny, non-aggressive fish that coexist peacefully with shrimp colonies

good

Chili Rasbora

Nano fish with minimal bioload; unlikely to consume adult shrimp

good

Amano Shrimp

May compete for food and territory; keep separate or in large colonies only

caution

Red Cherry Shrimp

Different species; potential hybridization and resource competition

caution

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Global Register of Invasive and Introduced Species (CC BY 4.0).