Introduction
Blue Tiger Shrimp are known for their distinctive vertical black stripes, reminiscent of those on Tiger Shrimp, and a blue color that varies from a dark shade (almost black) to a lighter blonde. Baby Blue Tigers resemble regular Tiger Shrimp, but as they grow, their blue color develops and darkens. Blue Tigers that start developing their color when they are smaller usually become darker blue as adults, compared to those that develop their color later.
Feeding the Blue Tiger Shrimp
Feeding Blue Tiger Shrimp is relatively simple. However, due to their delicate nature and high price, some breeders provide specialized foods. Their diet can consist of zucchini, blanched spinach, and algae wafers. It’s best to feed them once a day, giving them an amount they can easily finish within 2-3 hours. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to death and water quality issues. These shrimp are scavengers in the wild and are not accustomed to a constant food source. Skipping one or two days of feeding is acceptable and can help keep their environment clean.
- Ideal for shrimp in Genus Caridina, such as Crystal and Bumble Bee Shrimp
- Contains Bentonite Clay to aid with molting and strong shell production
- No fish meal added to mimic a more natural diet
- Higher protein levels are beneficial for shrimp carrying eggs, commonly referred to as "berried"
- Helps boost the color of your shrimp with added color enhancers
Sexing the Blue Tiger Shrimp
Identifying the sex of Blue Tiger Shrimp is straightforward. Females are larger and have a curved underbelly. Some believe that females are somewhat darker blue than males, but the color difference may not be enough to reliably determine sex. Instead, look for size differences and the shape of the underbelly. The saddle of a female Blue Tiger Shrimp may be difficult to see due to the dark blue coloration.
Breeding and Offspring
Blue Tiger Shrimp do not breed true, meaning some offspring will have the blue coloration while others will not. However, all offspring will have orange eyes. Non-blue offspring are known as Orange Eyed Tiger Shrimp or sometimes called Blonde Tiger Shrimp. The exact ratio of blue to non-blue offspring is unknown, but it is believed that breeding both blue individuals will produce a higher ratio of blue offspring. Breeding this species can be challenging, as continual inbreeding to maintain the blue coloration may make Blue Tiger Shrimp susceptible to disease and vulnerable in poor water conditions.
Availability and Purchasing
Blue Tiger Shrimp are somewhat harder to find than Tiger Shrimp or Super Tiger Shrimp, but their unique color variation makes them a desirable purchase. They can typically be found through online forums or vendors. Be sure to check out the recommended vendor below to find these bright blue creatures!
You can actually buy live blue tiger shrimp on Amazon. Here’s our recommended seller:
Water Parameters and Tank Setup
Maintaining appropriate water parameters is essential for the health and well-being of Blue Tiger Shrimp. They thrive in water temperatures between 65-78°F (18-25°C), with a pH level of 6.5-7.5. Additionally, a stable water hardness of 6-8 dGH is necessary for their survival. It’s important to have a well-cycled and established tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants and rocks, to provide a comfortable and safe environment for the shrimp.
Molting Process
Blue Tiger Shrimp, like all shrimp, go through a molting process as they grow. During molting, they shed their old exoskeleton to make room for a new, larger one. This process can be stressful for the shrimp, so it’s important to provide an environment with plenty of hiding spots and stable water parameters. Calcium-rich foods can help support the development of a strong new exoskeleton, ensuring a healthy molting process.
- Freshwater shrimp and crayfish need additional nutrients for molting and osmoregulation
- Replaces minerals and trace elements needed for strong exoskeleton development
- Suggested to remove chemical filtration, such as carbon, temporarily when dosing
- Ideal for all freshwater shrimp, crawfish and lobsters
- Convenient dosage cap is included - Add 5mL (1 tsp) for every 1 gallon of temperature adjusted tap or purified water
Tank Mates
When choosing tank mates for Blue Tiger Shrimp, it’s important to consider their delicate nature and avoid aggressive or predatory fish. Suitable tank mates include small, peaceful fish like Celestial Pearl Danios, Chili Rasboras, and Pygmy Corydoras. Additionally, other shrimp species such as Red Cherry Shrimp, Crystal Red Shrimp, and Amano Shrimp can coexist peacefully with Blue Tiger Shrimp.
Common Health Issues
As inbred species, Blue Tiger Shrimp can be susceptible to various health issues. One common problem is bacterial infections, which can result from poor water quality. Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters can help prevent such issues. Another potential health issue is parasitic infestations, which can be treated with specialized medications if detected early. Be sure to quarantine any new additions to the tank to prevent the spread of diseases or parasites.
Price and Rarity
Blue Tiger Shrimp are considered a rare and sought-after species in the shrimp hobby. Due to their unique appearance and coloration, they command a higher price than many other shrimp species. Prices may vary depending on the intensity of their blue color and the size of the shrimp but expect to pay a premium for these unique creatures. Despite their rarity and cost, many shrimp enthusiasts find the Blue Tiger Shrimp a rewarding and fascinating addition to their tanks.
Best Fish to Live with Blue Tiger Shrimp
When selecting suitable tank mates for Blue Tiger Shrimp, it’s important to consider their delicate nature and choose small, peaceful fish species that won’t pose a threat. Some of the best fish to coexist with Blue Tiger Shrimp include:
- Celestial Pearl Danios: These small, colorful fish are peaceful by nature and will not harm the shrimp.
- Chili Rasboras: Another small and non-aggressive species, Chili Rasboras are an excellent choice for a shrimp-friendly tank.
- Pygmy Corydoras: These bottom-dwelling fish are gentle and unlikely to bother shrimp, making them a good option for a shared tank.
- Otocinclus Catfish: These small, algae-eating catfish are compatible with shrimp as they won’t compete for food and are peaceful in nature.
- Dwarf Gouramis: Although slightly larger, Dwarf Gouramis are generally peaceful and can coexist with Blue Tiger Shrimp if provided with enough space and hiding spots.
Can Blue Tiger Shrimp Live with Other Types of Shrimp?
Yes, Blue Tiger Shrimp can live harmoniously with other shrimp species. Some compatible shrimp species include:
- Red Cherry Shrimp: These hardy, brightly colored shrimp are known for their peaceful nature and can coexist with Blue Tiger Shrimp.
- Crystal Red Shrimp: Another popular choice for shrimp hobbyists, Crystal Red Shrimp are non-aggressive and can live alongside Blue Tigers.
- Amano Shrimp: Known for their exceptional algae-eating abilities, Amano Shrimp can share a tank with Blue Tiger Shrimp without any issues.
- Snowball Shrimp: Similar in size and behavior, Snowball Shrimp make for compatible tank mates with Blue Tiger Shrimp.
However, it’s essential to monitor their interactions and ensure that there is adequate space, hiding spots, and food resources to prevent competition and stress.
FAQ
How big do Blue Tiger Shrimp grow?
Blue Tiger Shrimp typically grow to a size of 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) when fully grown.
How long do Blue Tiger Shrimp live?
With proper care and ideal tank conditions, Blue Tiger Shrimp can live for 1-2 years.
What is the ideal tank size for Blue Tiger Shrimp?
A minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters) is recommended for keeping Blue Tiger Shrimp, but a larger tank is always better to ensure stability in water parameters and provide ample space for the shrimp to explore and hide.
Can Blue Tiger Shrimp interbreed with other shrimp species?
While it is possible for Blue Tiger Shrimp to interbreed with other Caridina species, such as Crystal Red or Black Shrimp, it is relatively rare. However, interbreeding can lead to hybrid offspring with mixed traits and may dilute the desirable characteristics of the parent shrimp species.
How often should I change the water in a Blue Tiger Shrimp tank?
Regular water changes are essential for maintaining water quality and shrimp health. It is recommended to change 10-25% of the water in the tank every week or two, depending on the tank size and bioload. Always ensure that the new water has similar parameters to the tank water to prevent stress or shock to the shrimp.