Shrimp - Black Fancy Tiger

Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp

The Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp is a highly sought-after freshwater ornamental shrimp prized for its deep black body, intricate white striping, and refined pattern variation. Originating from selectively bred Caridina tiger shrimp lines, this striking invertebrate brings contrast, elegance, and constant activity to planted aquariums. Its active grazing behaviour and detailed patterning make it a standout choice for shrimp-focused and aquascaped freshwater setups.

Features of Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp

• Deep black base colour with crisp white tiger-like striping
• Selectively bred Caridina shrimp variety with unique pattern variation
• Small adult size of approximately 2.5–3 cm
• Peaceful and highly social in groups
• Excellent algae and biofilm grazer
• Best kept in dedicated shrimp or nano aquariums
• Sensitive to unstable water conditions

The best aquarium size for Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp

The Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp thrives in stable, mature aquariums with a minimum volume of 30 litres. Larger aquariums provide improved stability in water parameters and increased surface area for grazing biofilm, which is essential for long-term health.

Maintain water temperatures between 20–24 °C, a pH range of 6.2–7.4, and soft to moderately soft water conditions. Consistency is critical, as Caridina shrimp are sensitive to rapid changes in water chemistry.

Tank Mate Compatibility for Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp

The Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp is best kept with small, peaceful species that will not prey on or outcompete them, including:

• Chili Rasbora
• Ember Tetra
• Otocinclus Catfish
• Endler’s Livebearer
• Amano Shrimp

Avoid all predatory fish, larger cichlids, and any species known to hunt shrimp, as well as aggressive invertebrates.

Diet for Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp

The Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp is a constant grazer, feeding primarily on biofilm, algae, and detritus within the aquarium. Supplement their diet with high-quality shrimp pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables such as spinach and zucchini, and specialised Caridina shrimp foods rich in minerals.

A calcium-rich diet is essential for healthy shell development and successful moulting. Feed sparingly, as overfeeding can quickly degrade water quality.

Aquarium Setup Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp

Aquarium Filtration

Gentle, sponge-based filtration is ideal to provide biological filtration without risking shrimp injury or intake loss. Stable, oxygen-rich water is essential.

Aquarium Plants

Mosses such as Java Moss, along with plants like Anubias and Bucephalandra, provide grazing surfaces, shelter, and breeding areas for juvenile shrimp.

Aquarium Lighting

Low to moderate lighting encourages natural biofilm growth while enhancing the contrast of the shrimp’s black and white patterning.

Aquarium Heating

A reliable heater should maintain stable temperatures between 20–24 °C, avoiding fluctuations that may trigger stress or failed moults.

Aquarium Substrate

Active buffering substrates designed for Caridina shrimp are recommended to help maintain soft, slightly acidic water conditions.

Aquarium Decorations

Use driftwood, leaf litter, and fine-textured hardscape such as lava rock or spider wood to maximise grazing surfaces and create sheltered microhabitats.