Red Babaulti Shrimp

Caridina babaulti

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Atyidae

Red Babaulti Shrimp are a striking color morph of Caridina babaulti, displaying vibrant red coloration throughout their bodies with some individuals showing darker red or burgundy patterns. These hardy freshwater shrimp are popular for planted tanks and are known for their active grazing behavior and ability to thrive in a variety of water conditions. Their bold coloration makes them highly visible and attractive in community aquascapes.

Where it's from

Recorded as introduced in Norway

At a glance

Size: 1.5 in; 4 cm
Min tank: 5 gal; 19 L
Group: 10+
Temp: 72–82°F; 22–28°C
pH: 6.5-8.0
GH: 107–214 ppm; 6–12 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 2-3 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Red Babaulti Shrimp are detritivores that primarily graze on biofilm, algae, and decaying plant matter. Supplement their diet with high-quality shrimp pellets (Shirakura, Mosura), blanched vegetables such as zucchini and spinach, and occasional protein sources like dried seaweed. A well-established tank with plenty of plants and wood provides natural food sources.

Behavior

These shrimp are active grazers that spend most of their time on the substrate and plants searching for food. They are social and do well in groups, often gathering in clusters. Molting occurs regularly as they grow; provide plenty of hiding spots with plants, moss, and driftwood to help them feel secure during vulnerable molting periods.

Breeding

Red Babaulti Shrimp breed readily in neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.5-8.0) without requiring special conditions, making them easier than many Caridina species. Females produce small batches of 20-30 shrimplets that are born fully-formed and independent. Provide dense vegetation and biofilm-rich environments to support high survival rates of juveniles.

Tank mates

See all 6

Otocinclus

Small peaceful algae eater that shares bottom-dwelling niche without competing aggressively

excellent

Ember Tetra

Tiny, peaceful fish that will not prey on adult shrimp or shrimplets

excellent

Chili Rasbora

Nano fish that coexist peacefully with shrimp colonies

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Can be housed together but may compete for food; provide ample resources

good

Java Moss

Provides grazing surface, shelter, and breeding ground for shrimp

excellent

Beginner-friendly

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).