Description
Species Profile
The Black King Kong is a premier variety of Taiwan Bee Shrimp achieved through rigorous selective breeding. Known for their deep, obsidian-black bodies and crisp white markings, the name for these freshwater shrimp can differ depending on what marks they exhibit. “Pandas” feature distinct white bands, while “King Kongs” are almost entirely black with minimal white accents. You may also see “Shadow” or “Shadow Panda” variations, which display a blue hue within the white bands. Their bold, high-contrast look makes them one of the most sought-after additions to any high-end shrimp tank.
As with many highly bred freshwater shrimp, Black King Kongs are very sensitive to water fluctuations. While they can be kept in smaller setups, we recommend a shrimp aquarium of at least 20 gallons for long-term stability and ease of maintenance. The larger water volume provides a necessary buffer to maintain the stable, acidic conditions they require.
**Note: All livestock orders will come carefully packaged with solid wall Styrofoam insulation and shipped via 1-day shipping only. No additional insulation is needed for your livestock.
Key Features & Notes
Tank-raised specimens exhibiting obsidian-black bodies with clean white contrast.
Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
Peaceful, non-aggressive behavior that makes them perfect inhabitants for soft-water setups.
Care Specifications
Maintain stable, soft, acidic water chemistry using an active buffering substrate to support sensitive Caridina health.
Keep water parameters strictly free of copper-based medications or heavy metals.
Supplement their diet with plant-based shrimp pellets, spirulina, and blanched vegetables to ensure proper minerals for molting when natural algae is low.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to maintain stable parameters to ensure a healthy, thriving colony!
Attribute
Specification
Scientific Name
Caridina cantonensis
Common Name(s)
Black King Kong Shrimp, BKK Panda Shrimp, Taiwan Bee Shrimp
Care Difficulty
Intermediate to Advanced
Adult Size
1.0″–1.5″ (2.5–3.8 cm)
Diet
Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Grazing
Minimum Tank Size
5 Gallons (20+ Gallons Recommended)
Temperature Range
68°F–72°F (20°C–22°C)
pH Range
5.5–6.7
General Hardness (GH)
3–6 dGH
Carbonate Hardness (KH)
0–1 dKH
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
90–120 ppm
Lifespan
1–2 Years
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I properly acclimate my new freshwater shrimp to prevent shock?
Dwarf shrimp are sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters and total dissolved solids (TDS). Always drip acclimate new arrivals over 1 to 2 hours before releasing them into your tank. Follow our step-by-step tutorial in 7 Easy Steps to Drip Acclimate Shrimp and Fish for the perfect drip rate setup.
2. What substrate is best for keeping dwarf shrimp healthy?
It depends on the species! Neocaridina species thrive in inert substrates like gravel or sand, while Caridina species like Black King Kong Shrimp require active aquasoils that buffer pH down and pull KH near zero. Learn how to select the right foundation for your aquarium shrimp in our Best Substrate for Shrimp Guide.
3. How do I get my colony to start breeding?
As long as water parameters remain stable, temperatures stay in the low 70s, and adequate food is present, dwarf shrimp will breed naturally. To maximize baby shrimplet survival rates and learn how to support berried females, read our complete guide on How to Breed Freshwater Shrimp.
4. Are dwarf shrimp easy to care for if I am a beginner?
While Neocaridina species are great for beginners, Caridina species like Black King Kong Shrimp require precise soft-water conditions (low KH, low TDS, and active buffering soil). If you are just starting out, get a complete overview of parameters, diet, and setup requirements in our Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp Care Guide.
