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Caridina cantonensis
Also known as: Taiwan Bee Blue Bolt Shrimp
The Blue Bolt Shrimp – SS Grade represents one of the most vibrant and visually striking members of the Caridina genus. Bred from Taiwan Bee shrimp lines, SS grade individuals exhibit intense blue coloration with minimal white spotting, making them a standout species in any aquascaped tank. While considered more delicate than other Caridina varieties, these shrimp reward careful keepers with unmatched beauty and character.
Species: Caridina cantonensis
Size: Up to 1.2 inches (3cm)
Lifespan: 1.5 to 2 years
Difficulty: Advanced
Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (19 liters); 10+ gallons recommended for stability
SS grade Blue Bolts are among the highest quality in the Blue Bolt lineage:
Color: Deep, electric-to-turquoise blue
Markings: Very minimal white patches, mostly on the head or tail
Clarity: High opacity with saturated hues
Pattern Consistency: Preferred for breeding and competitive displays
The more intense and even the blue coloration, the higher the grade. SS grades are especially sought after for their striking, high-contrast appearance.
Blue Bolt shrimp are sensitive to water conditions and require very soft, slightly acidic water:
Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C)
pH: 5.0 to 5.7 (can tolerate up to 6.8 short term)
GH: 4 to 6 dGH
KH: 0 to 1 dKH
TDS: 100 to 160 ppm
Stability is critical—avoid swings in pH, TDS, or temperature.
Filtration
Use a sponge filter or gentle canister filter for low-flow, oxygen-rich water
Ensure biological filtration is mature before introducing shrimp
Substrate
Active substrates like ADA Aqua are recommended to buffer pH and maintain soft water
Support biofilm development and plant growth
Lighting
Moderate lighting is sufficient; avoid strong direct light that encourages algae overgrowth
Plants & Décor
Include mosses, Anubias, and Bucephalandra for shelter and grazing surfaces
Add natural hardscape (e.g., driftwood, cholla, stones) to create a comfortable microhabitat
Tank Mates
Best kept in species-only tanks
Avoid aggressive or fast-moving fish—shrimp are easily stressed or outcompeted
Core Diet
High-quality shrimp pellets and sinking Caridina-specific foods
Algae wafers and biofilm provide additional nutrition
Supplements
Blanched vegetables: zucchini, spinach, cucumber
Botanicals: Indian almond leaves and mulberry leaves support immune health and biofilm growth
Occasional protein treats: freeze-dried brine shrimp or bloodworms (sparingly)
Feeding Tips
Feed 2–3 times per week
Only offer what they can consume within 1–2 hours
Remove uneaten food to prevent ammonia spikes
Routine
Weekly water changes (10–20%) to maintain stable parameters
Match temperature and TDS of replacement water carefully
Tools
Use RO/DI water with shrimp-specific remineralizers to control GH, KH, and TDS precisely
Requirements
Stable tank with optimal water parameters
Mature females will carry eggs under their abdomen for 3–4 weeks
Eggs hatch into fully formed shrimplets—no larval stage
Tips for Success
Separate high-grade pairs for controlled breeding
Provide mosses and biofilm-rich areas for shrimplets to hide and feed
Avoid disturbance during molting and breeding phases
SS-grade Blue Bolts breed true within a selective environment, though lower-grade offspring can occasionally appear. Careful culling helps maintain line quality.
The SS Grade Blue Bolt Shrimp is a pinnacle species in the ornamental shrimp world, offering unmatched blue coloration and a refined, elegant presence. Though care-intensive, they are an ideal choice for aquarists dedicated to precision and beauty. With proper water conditions, feeding, and attention to detail, these shrimp will thrive and serve as the crown jewel of any Caridina collection.
