Aura Blue Shrimp

Key Takeaways:

• Neocaridina shrimp care involves maintaining optimal water conditions such as pH, temperature, and hardness.
• Proper shrimp breeding tips include providing optimal breeding conditions and observing the behaviour of the shrimp.
• Consider suitable tank mates for the Aura Blue Shrimp to ensure compatibility and minimize conflicts.
• Understanding common aquarium shrimp diseases and maintaining good hygiene is crucial for keeping the shrimp healthy.
• A balanced diet, including specialized shrimp food, helps enhance the colouration of the Aura Blue Shrimp.

The Aura Blue Shrimp, scientifically known as Caridina serrata, is a sought-after freshwater aquarium shrimp from the Caridina genus. It is a selectively bred variant of the spotted shrimp, which originated from the efforts of Monique Klaver from Holland.

The taxonomy and classification of the Aura Blue Shrimp are based on its scientific name, Caridina serrata. This shrimp has gained popularity among enthusiasts due to its vibrant blue colouration and unique characteristics.

Taxonomy and Classification

The Aura Blue Shrimp is classified under the Caridina genus and is scientifically identified as Caridina serrata. The genetic selection has resulted in this striking variant of the spotted shrimp, which exhibits a captivating blue colouration. Breeders and enthusiasts have continued to refine and develop this selectively bred shrimp, creating mesmerizing new colour variations.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

In its natural habitat, the Aura Blue Shrimp inhabits freshwater environments with specific water parameters. Though native to certain regions, Monique Klaver’s selective breeding efforts have made the Aura Blue Shrimp available in the aquarium trade. This shrimp’s natural habitat should be considered when providing care in a captive setting to ensure optimal conditions for its well-being.

Aura Blue Shrimp Physical Description and Characteristics

The Aura Blue Shrimp is a visually striking freshwater shrimp known for its unique physical appearance and characteristics. This species exhibits a vibrant ice-blue base colour overlaid with unevenly distributed dark spots and occasional tiger stripes. The specific markings and patterns can vary among individuals, making each shrimp genuinely unique in its appearance.

Colours and Markings

The Aura Blue Shrimp’s base is stunning ice-blue. This colouration is further enhanced by dark spots and irregularly distributed tiger stripes across its body.

These markings create a captivating contrast against the blue background, adding to the shrimp’s overall beauty and allure.

Gender Differences

In terms of size, females of the Aura Blue Shrimp tend to be slightly larger, reaching approximately 4 cm in length, while males are somewhat smaller, reaching up to 3.5 cm. This difference in size can help identify the shrimp’s gender. It is important to note that gender differences in size may vary slightly among individual shrimp.

Varieties

The Aura Blue Shrimp comes in different varieties, offering various colour variations and patterns. Breeders have selectively bred this shrimp species to create unique colour variations, such as shades of blue or intensified markings. These varieties provide shrimp enthusiasts with a range of options to enhance the visual appeal of their aquarium.

Grades

There are different grades available within the Aura Blue Shrimp variety. These grades often determine the quality and rarity of the shrimp. Shrimp grading is based on various factors, including colour intensity, pattern clarity, and overall appearance. Higher-grade Aura Blue Shrimp typically exhibit vibrant blue colours, well-defined markings, and exceptional overall quality.

Behaviour and Temperament

The Aura Blue Shrimp is generally known for its peaceful behaviour and is well-suited for community aquariums. It is not aggressive towards other shrimp or fish.

However, before adding them to an aquarium, it is important to consider their compatibility with tank mates and potential conflicts with other species. Observing the behaviour and temperament of the Aura Blue Shrimp can provide insight into their social interactions and overall well-being.

Aquarium Requirements

Providing suitable aquarium conditions is essential for the well-being of the Aura Blue Shrimp. Here are the key factors to consider:

Ideal Tank Size and Layout

The ideal tank size for Aura Blue Shrimp depends on the number of individuals and their space requirements. A larger tank is recommended, providing more stability and room for the shrimp to thrive. A spacious tank layout with hiding places and ample surface area allows the shrimp to explore and feel secure in their environment.

Water Parameters

The water parameters are crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for Aura Blue Shrimp. To replicate their natural habitat, it is essential to consider the following factors:

• pH: Aim for a maximum pH value of 7.
• Water Hardness: Maintain a total hardness of up to 8 °dGH and a KH of up to 2° dKH.
• Temperature: The ideal water temperature for Aura Blue Shrimp ranges from 20 °C to 26 °C.

Suitable Tank Mates and Potential Conflicts

When selecting tank mates for Aura Blue Shrimp, it is essential to ensure compatibility and minimize potential conflicts. This species is generally compatible with peaceful fish species and certain invertebrates. However, avoiding aggressive or predatory species that may harm or prey on the shrimp is crucial.

Compatibility with Live Plants and Invertebrates

Aura Blue Shrimp can coexist with live plants and certain invertebrates in the aquarium. However, it is crucial to consider these species’ specific requirements and interactions. Some live plants may require specific lighting or fertilization, while certain invertebrates may have different water parameter preferences. Careful research and consideration are necessary to ensure a harmonious tank environment.

Blue Velvet Shrimp – Care

Proper care is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of the Aura Blue Shrimp. To ensure their vitality, providing a suitable environment and being aware of common shrimp diseases and their prevention and treatment methods is essential.

Diseases

Regular observation and monitoring of the Aura Blue Shrimp’s appearance and behaviour are crucial to identifying signs of illness or disease. By staying vigilant, you can promptly address any health issues.

Maintaining optimal water parameters, such as proper pH levels, water hardness, and temperature, is crucial to prevent diseases. Additionally, providing a balanced diet and implementing adequate feeding and maintenance practices play a significant role in ensuring the health of the shrimp.

If you notice any abnormalities in the Aura Blue Shrimp, it’s essential to consult a knowledgeable professional or veterinarian to diagnose the issue accurately. Treatment methods may include medication or adjusting the shrimp’s environment to promote recovery.

By dedicating time and effort to the care and observation of Aura Blue Shrimp, you can create a thriving environment that minimizes the risk of diseases and promotes their overall well-being.

Diet and Feeding

A balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for the overall health and development of the Aura Blue Shrimp. Understanding the shrimp’s dietary preferences and selecting suitable foods is critical to ensuring their well-being. Its natural habitat and feeding habits influence the Shrimp’s nutritional choices.

Dietary Preferences

The Aura Blue Shrimp is an omnivorous species that consumes plant matter and tiny organisms. In their natural habitat, these shrimp feed on biofilm, algae, detritus, and microscopic organisms found on rocks, plants, and substrate surfaces.

Recommended Foods and Feeding Schedule

To provide a proper diet for the Aura Blue Shrimp, it is recommended that a variety of food options be offered. High-quality shrimp-specific pellets or flakes, supplemented with fresh or blanched vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, and kale, serve as excellent staple foods. Providing occasional protein-rich foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms can also support the shrimp’s nutritional requirements.

Feeding the Aura Blue Shrimp in small quantities once or twice daily is generally sufficient. Observing the shrimp’s feeding behaviour and adjusting the amount of food accordingly is essential. Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can lead to poor water quality and health issues.

Tips on Ensuring a Balanced and Nutritious Diet

To ensure a balanced and nutritious diet for the Aura Blue Shrimp, consider the following tips:

1. Offer a variety of foods to meet the shrimp’s nutritional needs.
2. Rotate the diet to provide a diverse range of nutrients.
3. Ensure all food is consumed within a few hours to prevent deterioration and water quality issues.
4. Monitor the shrimp’s feeding behaviour and adjust the amount of food accordingly.
5. Remove any uneaten food after feeding to maintain water cleanliness.

How to Get the Best Coloring

Aura Blue Shrimp’s vibrant colouring can be further enhanced by providing a suitable diet and optimal water conditions. A nutritious diet rich in carotenoids and natural colour-enhancing pigments can contribute to the shrimp’s vibrant blue hue. Maintaining stable water parameters, such as appropriate pH and temperature levels, can help preserve and enhance the shrimp’s colouration.

Breeding and Reproduction

Breeding the Aura Blue Shrimp can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour for enthusiasts. Understanding the reproductive process, sexing the shrimp, and providing suitable breeding conditions are essential.

Sexing

Sexing the Aura Blue Shrimp is essential for successful breeding. Males and females can be distinguished based on their physical characteristics. Females tend to be larger, reaching up to 4 cm, while males are slightly smaller, reaching up to 3.5 cm. Observing the shape of the abdomen and the presence of a saddle in females can also help determine their gender.

Breeding Behavior and Conditions

Creating an optimal environment for successful mating and reproduction is crucial. The Aura Blue Shrimp exhibits complex breeding behaviour, including courtship rituals and mating dances. Providing plenty of hiding spots and ample plant cover in the aquarium can encourage these behaviours. Maintaining stable water conditions with a temperature range of 20-26 °C and a pH of up to 7 is essential for breeding success.

Care of Eggs and Fry

Once the Aura Blue Shrimp has successfully mated, the female will carry the eggs beneath her abdomen until they hatch. Providing a safe and well-maintained environment to care for the eggs and fry is essential. Avoid sudden changes in water parameters and provide ample food for the developing fry. Removing any potential threats or predators from the aquarium can also help ensure the survival of the young shrimp.

Challenges in Breeding in Captivity

Breeding Aura Blue Shrimp can present various challenges. The limited availability of breeders and the shrimp’s specialized reproductive type, which results in a relatively small egg production of about 10-20 per year, can make mass reproduction difficult.

Additionally, maintaining the ideal water parameters and providing the necessary care for both the parents and offspring can be demanding. However, with proper knowledge and attention to detail, these challenges can be overcome, resulting in successful breeding and the propagation of this stunning shrimp species.