Black King Kong Mosura Shrimp (Caridina cf. cantonensis)

Black King Kong Mosura Shrimp — Caridina cf. cantonensis

Rare, refined, and breathtaking in motion — the Black King Kong Mosura Shrimp represents the pinnacle of Caridina selective breeding. Distinguished by its intense, opaque black coloration and the iconic Mosura pattern — a solid white cap crowning the head with bold white body banding — this shrimp commands attention in any aquascape. Reserved for the most dedicated keepers.

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Caridina cf. cantonensis
• Origin: Selectively bred — Taiwan
• Adult Size: 2 – 3 cm (0.8 – 1.2 inches)
• Lifespan: 1.5 – 2 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, social
• Difficulty: Advanced — recommended for experienced Caridina keepers

Appearance & Grading

• Coloration: Deep, opaque black with bright white markings
• Pattern: Solid white head cap (Mosura crown) with white body banding over an intense black base — the defining trait of the King Kong Mosura grade
• Grading: Judged by the opacity and depth of black, the clarity and coverage of the white Mosura cap, and the sharpness of banding contrast. Higher grades command significant premium pricing.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20 – 25°C (68 – 77°F)
• pH: 5.8 – 6.8 (soft, acidic water essential)
• gH: 3 – 6
• kH: 0 – 1
• TDS: 80 – 150 ppm

Tank Setup

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 L (5 gallons)
• Water Source: Re-mineralized RO water is essential
• Substrate: Active buffering substrate (e.g. ADA Amazonia, Fluval Stratum) to maintain low pH and KH
• Filtration: Sponge filter or pre-filtered inlet to protect shrimplets
• Decor: Dense moss, driftwood, and leaf litter to encourage biofilm and provide refuge

Diet

• Primary: Biofilm and algae naturally occurring in a mature tank
• Supplemental: High-quality shrimp-specific pellets, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein (daphnia, spirulina) 1–2× per week
• Avoid: Overfeeding — uneaten food degrades water quality rapidly in soft-water setups

Breeding & Behaviour

• Breeding: Breeds in freshwater under stable, optimal conditions. Females carry 15–25 eggs for 4–6 weeks. Offspring generally maintain King Kong Mosura characteristics when bred true.
• Tankmates: Best kept species-only or with other soft-water Caridina (Crystal Black, Blue Bolt). Do not mix with Neocaridina species.
• Avoid: Fish tankmates, copper-based treatments, and sudden parameter swings