General information – The Caridina spongicola or by its common

name Harlequin Shrimp is a new species discovered recently in 

Sulawesi. The Caridina spongicola is endemic to Sulawesi Island,

Indonesia. Sulawesi Island also produced many new species of

magnificent shrimps and snails. The Caridina spongicola is found

only in Malili Lake system in Sulawesi but this island is yet explored

completely. It has an astonishing color pattern, three dark reddish

brown stripes ornaments its body. The Harlequin Shrimp is the

smallest of all of the recently discovered Sulawesi Shrimp. It is very

shy shrimp until it feels safe and comfortable in its new environment.

Once it is acclimated to the aquarium it will come out more and more

performing its natural beautiful colors.  

Photo by: Aquario

Scientific Name - Caridina spongicola 

Family – Shrimps (Atyidae family) 

Origin - Sulawesi Island, Indonesia  Size – Up to 1.5 cm.  

First discovered – Unknown 

Nutrition – In the wild, the Caridina spongicola feeds on freshwater sponges. That is why it was given its

scientific name Caridina spongicola. In captivity feeding is best done once a day, the Harlequin Shrimp will

accept fish food such as flakes and pellets, Spirulina wafers and shrimp wafers, frozen foods can

complete its diet.    

Behavior – Peaceful  

Maintenance and care – The Harlequin Shrimp need a lot of vegetation in his tank, the plants can be 

source of nutrition and also a good shelter for him. Cichlids and other big or aggressive fish can't live with

the Harlequin Shrimp in the same tank. The Harlequin Shrimp is sensitive to copper like all the

shrimp family.   

Water Parameters – Temperature:78F-84F , PH : 7.5- 8 

Breeding-  Breeding occurs in freshwater. There is no larval stage. The adult females carry the eggs until

they hatch.  The females carry about 10-15 eggs. Eggs hatch after 25-30 days. The youngsters show the

same color as the adults but the colors are somewhat pale.