At a glance the quick version
German Wikipedia gives about 22 mm; English Wikipedia 25-38 mm. Females are larger.
Looks how to spot one
Exoskeleton (dwarf freshwater shrimp)
A see-through shrimp with fine, sharp-edged dark stripes along the rear body, like a tiny tiger. Some have orange eyes or orange on the tail.12
Personality what they are like
A peaceful, easygoing omnivore that leaves other tank mates alone.1
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Busy grazer; plenty of plants and stones give it room to forage.2
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Prefers clean, soft water; keep it steady with regular small water changes.1
Home where they are happiest
Soft water with pH about 6-7.5 (about 6.5 is ideal) and temperature 18-24 C.1
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Eats biofilm on stones, decaying plant matter and tiny insect larvae.2
Company who they like around
Ranked among the most popular dwarf shrimp; kept in groups.2
The story where it all began
Tiger shrimp were common in aquariums for years under the placeholder name Caridina cf. cantonensis. Klotz and von Rintelen formally described the species as Caridina mariae in 2014.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
Recognised by the official bits
- Taxonomy (Klotz & von Rintelen, 2014)
- Described in 2014 in the family Atyidae; previously traded as Caridina cf. cantonensis.1
- Aquarium hobby
- Colour forms include Blue Tiger, Black Tiger, Orange Tail Tiger, Golden/Tangerine Tiger and Red Tiger Orange Eye.2
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Tiger Shrimp. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
- FeedingSmall amountsevery day
- Temperature checkevery day
- Water changeSmall, gentle water changesevery week
- Water testevery week
- Filter rinseRinse in old tank water, never tap waterevery month
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Tiger Shrimp?
Feed your Tiger Shrimp daily in small amounts. They graze on biofilm and tiny bits, so a little goes a long way. Follow the food label and ask your vet for exact portions.2 Pet Wiki plan
What does a Tiger Shrimp eat, and what should it never eat?
They enjoy biofilm, decaying leaves, and tiny insect larvae. Avoid anything sharp or toxic; never give them copper-based foods or medications. For specifics, ask a good breeder or vet.2
How much space does a Tiger Shrimp need?
They need a well-planted tank with plenty of stones and plants to explore. A 10-gallon tank is a good starting size for a small group. Exact space varies; ask an experienced breeder.2
What temperature, light or water does a Tiger Shrimp need?
Keep water soft with pH around 6.5 and temperature between 18-24°C. Normal room lighting is fine. Test water weekly and do small gentle changes as part of Furry Diary's starting plan.1 Pet Wiki plan
How often should I clean a Tiger Shrimp's home?
Do a small gentle water change every week and rinse the filter in old tank water once a month. Never use tap water directly. Keep the environment stable for your shrimp.1 Pet Wiki plan
Can a Tiger Shrimp live with others?
Yes, they are peaceful and do well in groups with other gentle tank mates. Avoid large or aggressive fish. They enjoy being in a small colony.12
How long does a Tiger Shrimp live?
Tiger shrimp typically live 1 to 2 years with good care. Provide stable water and a varied diet to help them thrive.1
Can I handle a Tiger Shrimp?
Handling is not recommended; these tiny shrimp are delicate. If you must move them, use a soft net and ask a vet or experienced keeper for advice.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.
- Caridina mariae - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for taxonomy, range, size, lifespan, appearance, water parameters, breeding
- Caridina mariae - Wikipedia (de) de.wikipedia.orgused for size, colour forms, diet, breeding season, popularity
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.