Australian Darwin Algae Eating Shrimp

Caridina sp NTnilotica, aka Darwin Algae Shrimp - this Australian (Darwin, NT) freshwater shrimp loves to eat algae, including hair type algae which are typically some of the hardest to get rid of.

Sold at a minimum length of 15mm (1.5cm) - the Darwin Algae Shrimp grow to a maximum length of 50mm (5cm).

We recommend as many as 25 shrimp per 100 litres of water volume can be added to a live stocked freshwater aquarium.

More can be safely added to a planted only aquarium.

Please note: Darwin Algae Shrimp are not known to eat blue-green algae, which is actually a phylum of bacteria and plastids.

Care Instructions

The Algae Eating Shrimp is a relatively hardy shrimp that can survive in a diverse range of water conditions. Ideal water chemistry below.

pH: 6.5-8
Hardness: soft to hard
Temperature: 18-28C
Type: Freshwater

When not eating algae the Algae Eating Shrimp will eat left over food from other fish. You can also feed the Algae Eating Shrimp with a quality sinking wafer. We recommend Hikari Bottom Feeder Sinking Wafers suitable for Catfish, Loaches and other bottom feeders.

Community Aquariums

Our shrimp thrive in a freshwater planted aquarium and can exist safely in a community tank of small non-aggressive fish.

We recommend having dense coverage of plants to provide ample hiding spots for shrimp.

Caution: with larger and more aggressive fish, shrimp may end up as live food.

You can review our compatibility chart below to be used as a general guide.

You should however consider the temperament and stress your fish are under as even the most docile fish could turn predator if they are showing signs of aggression, competing for food or are otherwise stressed beyond normal levels.