Harlequin Shrimp (Sulawesi)

Caridina woltereckae

Also known as Cardinal Shrimp look-alike

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Atyidae

Caridina woltereckae, commonly known as Harlequin or Sulawesi Shrimp, are striking freshwater shrimp native to the unique waters of Sulawesi, Indonesia. These shrimp feature distinctive red and white banding patterns and require specific water parameters to thrive, making them a challenging but rewarding species for experienced aquarists. They are peaceful, active foragers that spend much of their time exploring the substrate and plants.

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: 6+
Temp: 82–86°F; 28–30°C
pH: 7.8-8.5
GH: 143–268 ppm; 8–15 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 2-3 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Harlequin Shrimp are detritivores that primarily feed on biofilm, algae, and decaying plant matter. Supplement with high-quality shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and algae wafers 2-3 times weekly. A mature, well-established tank with abundant biofilm is essential for their long-term health.

Behavior

These shrimp are active bottom-dwellers that spend most of their time foraging through substrate and plants for food. They are social and do best in small groups or colonies of 6+ individuals. Molting is frequent and normal; provide plenty of hiding places with plants and hardscape to allow safe molting.

Breeding

Breeding in freshwater is extremely difficult and rarely successful in home aquaria. Females produce eggs but larvae typically require brackish water conditions to develop properly. Most captive-bred specimens available in the hobby have been selectively bred, but reproduction remains challenging even for expert aquarists.

Tank mates

See all 6

Anubias Snow White

Provides shelter and biofilm growth without being consumed

excellent

Pellia Moss

Dense moss creates ideal foraging habitat and biofilm production

excellent

Honey Gourami

Small, peaceful fish that won't predate on shrimp; requires same warm water

good

Otocinclus

Peaceful algae eater that shares similar water requirements and won't harm shrimp

good

Ember Tetra

Small, non-aggressive fish compatible with warm water parameters

good

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Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date.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).