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White Orchid Shrimp
Caridina spinata
Also known as Sulawesi Harlequin Shrimp, Spinata Shrimp, White Orchid Caridina
Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Atyidae
White Orchid Shrimp are a stunning freshwater dwarf shrimp species prized for their pristine white coloration and peaceful demeanor. These small, active invertebrates are excellent for planted aquariums and community tanks where they help control algae and biofilm. They require stable water parameters and a mature tank with plenty of hiding places and biofilm growth.
Where it's from
Recorded as introduced in Norway
At a glance
- Size
- 1.2 in
- 3 cm
- Min tank
- 5 gal
- 19 L
- Group
- 6+
- Temp
- 72–79°F
- 22–26°C
- pH
- 6.5-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 2-3 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
White Orchid Shrimp are primarily detritivores that feed on biofilm, algae, and decaying plant matter. Supplement with high-quality shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and algae wafers 2-3 times per week. A mature, established tank with abundant biofilm is essential for their long-term health.
Behavior
These shrimp are active foragers that spend most of their time on the substrate and plants searching for food. They are social creatures that do best in small groups and will exhibit natural grazing behavior throughout the day. They are sensitive to water disturbances and prefer gentle flow and plenty of vegetation for security.
Breeding
White Orchid Shrimp breed readily in freshwater without requiring brackish water for larval development, making them ideal for home aquariums. Females produce small batches of 20-30 shrimplets every 4-6 weeks when conditions are stable. A well-established tank with good water quality and hiding places will support natural population growth.
Tank mates
See all 6Similar size and peaceful temperament; compatible foraging behavior
Small, non-aggressive fish that occupy different water zones
Peaceful algae eater with similar biofilm-feeding habits
Generally peaceful but may occasionally nip at shrimp; monitor closely
Provides shelter, biofilm growth, and natural habitat
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Common diseases 4Molting Issues / Incomplete Molt, Copper Toxicity, Bacterial Infection / Shell Disease, Parasitic Infection (Flukes)
Molting Issues / Incomplete Molt
Shrimp stuck in old exoskeleton, inability to shed properly, lethargy, death if not assisted
Ensure stable water parameters (especially calcium and magnesium for shell hardening); provide iodine-rich foods; maintain pH 6.5-7.5; avoid sudden water changes; remove stuck shrimp carefully if necessary
Copper Toxicity
Lethargy, loss of appetite, discoloration, sudden death
Avoid all copper-based medications and fertilizers; use only shrimp-safe products; perform large water changes if copper exposure occurs; use activated carbon in filter
Bacterial Infection / Shell Disease
White spots on shell, shell erosion, fuzzy growth on body, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent partial water changes; increase aeration; remove affected individuals to quarantine; maintain stable parameters; avoid overfeeding
Parasitic Infection (Flukes)
Excessive grooming, rubbing against objects, lethargy, loss of appetite
Perform salt baths (not recommended for sensitive shrimp); increase water changes; maintain optimal water parameters; quarantine new additions; avoid copper treatments
Legality
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).
At a glance
- Size
- 1.2 in3 cm
- Min tank
- 5 gal19 L
- Group
- 6+
- Temp
- 72–79°F22–26°C
- pH
- 6.5-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 2-3 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
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