Ninja Shrimp

Caridina serratirostris

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Other names: Color-changing shrimp, Serratirostris shrimp

Group: Shrimp, crayfish and crabs · Family: Atyidae · Origin: Indo-West Pacific — near-coastal rivers of Southeast Asia, Japan and the Pacific islands

A small shrimp that can change color between red, brown, green and transparent depending on its surroundings and mood. It cleans up algae and biofilm; because its larvae develop in salt water, it does not breed in fresh water.

Will it suit my tank?

Last updated October 16, 2026

Temperature: 22–28°C
pH: 6.5–7.5
Hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult size: 2.5 cm
Minimum tank size: 20 liters
Lifespan: 1–2 years
Social structure: School
Group: at least 5, ideally 10+
Swimming zone: All levels
Diet: Omnivore
Breeding: Other

Water parameters

Temperature22–28°C

pH6.5–7.5

General hardness (GH)5–15 dGH

Recommended range

Considered shrimp safe Suitable for planted tanks

Overview

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

The ninja shrimp is a small Caridina species famous for being able to change its color in a short time. The same individual may look dark red one day and brown, greenish or almost transparent the next; the color changes with the substrate, light and mood. Its name also comes from this camouflage ability. It lives in rivers near the coast; because its larvae develop after drifting to the sea or river mouths, it does not breed in the aquarium. Individuals for sale are collected from the wild.

Tank Setup

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

20 liters or more for 5–10 individuals; a mature aquarium with established biofilm.
23–27°C, near-neutral, soft to moderately hard water; good oxygenation and gentle flow.
Moss, roots and leaves provide both hiding places and food.
Stay away from products containing copper; acclimate slowly using the drip method.

Diet

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

Omnivorous; algae and biofilm are its main food. It is supplemented with shrimp food, spirulina tablets, dried leaves and blanched vegetables. Feed sparingly and remove leftovers.

Behavior and Compatibility

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

Completely peaceful; it constantly grazes on leaf and root surfaces.

Good companions: Dwarf shrimp, otocinclus, small tetras and rasboras, nerite snails.

Avoid: Bettas, cichlids, fish whose mouths can fit a shrimp, crayfish and large Macrobrachium shrimp.

A short profile for this species

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Natural Habitat Group and Colony Structure Breeding Health and Common Problems Sexing

Tank mates

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