The Choco Black Shrimp is a popular freshwater shrimp known for its unique and attractive coloration. These shrimp are prized in the aquarium hobby for their deep brown to almost black color, which can add a striking contrast to a planted tank. Here’s a closer look:

 Appearance:

Color: The Choco Black Shrimp typically has a rich, chocolate-brown to nearly black coloration. The intensity of the color can vary depending on the shrimp’s diet, environment, and genetics.

Size:Like most dwarf shrimp, Choco Black Shrimp are small, usually reaching around 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm) in length.

Shape:They have the typical body shape of Neocaridina shrimp, with a curved back and a fan-like tail. Their coloration may be uniform or slightly varied, sometimes with a lighter underbelly or slight striping.

Care:

Tank Requirements: 

  Water Parameters: Choco Black Shrimp thrive in well-established tanks with stable water conditions. Ideal water parameters include a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, a temperature range of 70-80°F (21-27°C), and a GH (General Hardness) of 4-8 dGH.

  Substrate: A dark substrate can help bring out the shrimp's coloration. Many hobbyists use substrates specifically designed for shrimp, which help maintain water quality and provide a good environment for biofilm growth.

  Plants and Hiding Spots: Shrimp love heavily planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Plants like mosses, ferns, and Anubias provide cover and surfaces for biofilm, which shrimp graze on. Rocks and driftwood also make great additions to their habitat.

Diet: Choco Black Shrimp are omnivores and will feed on biofilm, algae, and detritus in the tank. Their diet can be supplemented with high-quality shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables (like spinach or zucchini), and occasional protein sources like daphnia or brine shrimp.

Tank Mates: These shrimp are peaceful and do best in a community of other small, non-aggressive fish or other shrimp. Ideal tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, or other dwarf shrimp species. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive fish that might prey on them.

Breeding:

Mating: Choco Black Shrimp, like other Neocaridina species, breed readily in a stable, well-maintained tank. Females carry fertilized eggs under their abdomen until they hatch, usually after about 3-4 weeks.

Fry Care: The baby shrimp (fry) are fully formed when they hatch and require the same care as adults. They primarily feed on biofilm and algae, so a mature tank with plenty of surfaces for grazing is ideal.

Special Considerations:

Color Maintenance:The rich, chocolate-black color can sometimes fade if the shrimp are stressed or kept in poor conditions. Maintaining stable water parameters and providing a good diet will help preserve their coloration.

Selective Breeding:If you are breeding Choco Black Shrimp, selecting the darkest, most vibrant individuals for breeding will help maintain and enhance the desired coloration in future generations.

Choco Black Shrimp are a beautiful and relatively easy-to-care-for species, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists who want to add a touch of dark elegance to their tanks.