Description
Species Profile
The Red King Kong Shrimp is a highly sought-after member of the Taiwan Bee lineage, prized for its rich red coloration and distinctive patterning. They typically display contrasting white bands or markings reminiscent of the classic “Panda” pattern. This balance of deep red and bright white makes them a standout fauna option for planted aquariums, especially against dark substrates and lush green mosses.
As a Taiwan Bee shrimp, Red King Kongs are best suited for intermediate to experienced hobbyists due to their sensitivity to unstable water conditions. They thrive in mature, well-maintained aquariums with soft, slightly acidic water and consistent parameters. Stability is key to helping them display their best coloration and remain healthy long-term.
**Note: All livestock orders will come carefully packaged with solid wall Styrofoam insulation and shipped via 1-day shipping only. No additional insulation is needed for your livestock.
Key Features & Notes
Tank-raised specimens featuring deep, velvety red coloration accented by signature white bands or panda markings.
Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
Highly prized choice as peaceful dwarf shrimp for aquariums looking for top-tier Taiwan Bee genetics.
Care Specifications
Maintain stable, soft, acidic water chemistry using an active buffering substrate to support sensitive Caridina health.
Keep water parameters strictly free of copper-based medications or heavy metals.
Supplement their diet with plant-based shrimp pellets, spirulina, and blanched vegetables to ensure proper minerals for molting when natural algae is low.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to maintain stable parameters to ensure a healthy, thriving colony!
Attribute
Specification
Scientific Name
Caridina cantonensis
Common Name(s)
Red King Kong Shrimp, RKK Shrimp, Taiwan Bee Red Panda
Care Difficulty
Intermediate to Advanced
Adult Size
1.0″–1.25″ (2.5–3.0 cm)
Diet
Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Scavenger
Minimum Tank Size
10 Gallons
Temperature Range
68°F–76°F (20°C–24°C)
pH Range
6.0–6.5
General Hardness (GH)
3–5 dGH
Carbonate Hardness (KH)
0–2 dKH
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
100–150 ppm
Lifespan
1–2 Years
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I properly acclimate my new freshwater shrimp to prevent shock?
Dwarf shrimp are sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters and total dissolved solids (TDS). Always drip acclimate new arrivals over 1 to 2 hours before releasing them into your tank. Follow our step-by-step tutorial in 7 Easy Steps to Drip Acclimate Shrimp and Fish for the perfect drip rate setup.
2. What substrate is best for keeping dwarf shrimp healthy?
It depends on the species! Neocaridina species thrive in inert substrates like gravel or sand, while Caridina species like Red King Kong Shrimp require active aquasoils that buffer pH down and pull KH near zero. Learn how to select the right foundation for your aquarium shrimp in our Best Substrate for Shrimp Guide.
3. How do I get my colony to start breeding?
As long as water parameters remain stable, temperatures stay in the low 70s, and adequate food is present, dwarf shrimp will breed naturally. To maximize baby shrimplet survival rates and learn how to support berried females, read our complete guide on How to Breed Freshwater Shrimp.
4. Are dwarf shrimp easy to care for if I am a beginner?
While Neocaridina species are great for beginners, Caridina species like Red King Kong Shrimp require precise soft-water conditions (low KH, low TDS, and active buffering soil). If you are just starting out, get a complete overview of parameters, diet, and setup requirements in our Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp Care Guide.
