Spotted Head Pinto Shrimp

Caridina logemanni

Also known as Spotted Head Pinto

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Atyidae

The Spotted Head Pinto Shrimp is a selectively bred Caridina variety featuring distinctive white or cream-colored spots concentrated on the head and body, creating a striking contrast against a darker base coloration. This pinto pattern makes them highly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate intricate markings. They are small, peaceful bottom-dwellers ideal for planted nano aquariums.

Where it's from

Recorded as introduced in Norway

At a glance

Size: 1.25 in; 3 cm
Min tank: 5 gal; 19 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: 1-2 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Spotted Head Pinto Shrimp are detritivores that graze on biofilm, algae, and decaying plant matter throughout the day. Supplement with high-quality shrimp foods such as Shirakura or Mosura pellets 2-3 times weekly, and offer blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini occasionally. Ensure adequate mineral content through specialized Caridina supplements to support molting and coloration.

Behavior

These shrimp are active grazers that spend most of their time foraging on substrate and plants. They are social and thrive in colonies, exhibiting natural hierarchies without aggression. Molting occurs every 4-6 weeks; provide plenty of hiding spots and leaf litter to support successful molts and reduce stress during vulnerable periods.

Breeding

Spotted Head Pinto Shrimp require soft, acidic water (pH 5.5-6.5, GH 4-6) to breed successfully, as harder water inhibits reproduction. Females produce small batches of 20-30 shrimplets that develop within the mother's saddle; no planktonic larval stage occurs. Offspring are miniature versions of adults and require stable parameters and abundant biofilm for survival.

Tank mates

See all 6

Otocinclus

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

excellent

Ember Tetra

Tiny, non-predatory fish that coexist peacefully in planted tanks

good

Chili Rasbora

Nano fish with similar water parameter requirements and peaceful temperament

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Larger shrimp species that can cohabitate if tank is spacious; may compete for food

good

Java Moss

Provides essential biofilm, hiding spots, and grazing surfaces for shrimp

excellent

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).