Sulawesi Fan Shrimp Care Guide
Caridina longidigita · Freshwater Invert
What Sulawesi Fan Shrimp look like
Caridina longidigita, commonly known as the Sulawesi Fan Shrimp, exhibits a small, slender, and laterally compressed body that typically reaches a maximum adult size of 3 to 10 centimeters. The shrimp is characterized by its distinctive long, feathery chelipeds, which are adapted for filter-feeding and extend fan-like to capture particulate matter from the water column. The body coloration is predominantly reddish, providing some camouflage against the substrate. Sexual dimorphism is present, with females generally being larger and possessing more developed brood pouches for carrying eggs. Defensive adaptations include the ability to blend into the substrate and the use of their elongated appendages to create a barrier against potential predators. Unique morphological features include the presence of a well-defined rostrum and a series of setae along the chelipeds that enhance their filter-feeding capabilities.
Behavior & temperament
Sulawesi Fan Shrimp are primarily benthic dwellers, often found in shallow waters where they engage in filter-feeding behavior. They exhibit a social hierarchy, typically forming loose aggregations rather than strict schools, which allows for both social interaction and territoriality. These shrimp are generally peaceful but can display mild aggression when competing for food or space. Breeding behavior involves the female carrying fertilized eggs in her brood pouch until they hatch, making them ovoviviparous. Their temperament is generally calm, but they may become skittish in the presence of larger tank mates or disturbances in their environment.
Diet & feeding
In the wild, Caridina longidigita feeds on detritus, biofilm, and small particulate matter filtered from the water. In captivity, they require a varied diet that includes high-quality flake foods, algae wafers, and specialized shrimp pellets, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods such as daphnia or brine shrimp.
Behind the name
Caridina (from Greek 'karis', meaning shrimp; 'ida', a diminutive suffix) and longidigita (from Latin 'longus', meaning long; 'digitus', meaning finger), referring to the shrimp's elongated chelipeds.
Plan your tank
Check the numbers before you buy: tank volume, a stocking plan, cycle progress, water changes, and your ongoing care routine.
Keeping Sulawesi Fan Shrimp?
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