BLACK PINTO SHRIMP (Caridina Cantonensis .Var)

• Pinto Shrimp are a type of Taitibee
• Striking black color and prominent white/yellow/blue stripes
• Differs from a normal zebra pinto by the spots and sometimes line on its head
• Moderate difficulty shrimp
• Does not thrive on tap water

Pinto Shrimp are a type of Taitibee, which is a  “mischling” or crossbreed. Tibee shrimp were created by crossing either a Tiger Shrimp with a Taiwan Bee Shrimp, or a Tiger Shrimp and a Crystal Red or Black Shrimp. Taitibee and Pinto Shrimp are the result of crossing a Tibee Shrimp back to a Taiwan Bee. Pinto Shrimp display three different color variations: zebra, spotted head, and “fancy”—cloud or skunk pattern. These shrimp can exhibit these patterns in black and white or red and white. Sexing Pinto Shrimp can be somewhat difficult until the shrimp begin to mature. Female shrimp have slightly larger tails and display a “saddle” formation on the upper body, behind the head, where eggs are stored before fertilization. The saddle can be nearly impossible to identify on this shrimp due to its dark coloration. When female shrimp are “berried”, or have eggs ready for fertilization, the saddle shape will appear more prominent. Once the shrimp are fully-grown the males will be smaller than the females.

Galaxy Pinto Grading:

• 0 Spots on the head – Zebra Pinto
• 1 – 2 Spots on the head – Medium Grade and now Galaxy Pinto
• 3 – 5 Spots on the head – High Grade Galaxy PInto
• 6 Or more spots on the head – Highest Grade Galaxy Pinto
• Line connecting rostrum to zebra stripes – Galaxy Fishbone

Pinto Shrimp are very sensitive to water conditions, as with many shrimp that are the result of inbreeding for desirable characteristics. It is recommended to use a larger tank for these shrimp, at least 25 gallons. This is in part because it is easier to maintain consistent parameters in a larger tank. Having completely clean, almost drinkable, water is necessary to keep Pinto Shrimp healthy. There is conflicting information on the best water parameters for these shrimp. They may prefer warmer conditions and neutral pH, but these conditions are not ideal because they can breed nasty pathogens that threaten the shrimp. There is evidence that low temperature and pH helps protect the shrimp from disease, rather than being their preferential environment.

Pinto Shrimp make an impressive addition to an experienced shrimp hobbyist’s aquarium. If you are looking for the challenge of keeping a very rare and coveted shrimp, Pinto Shrimp may be for you. Although these shrimp require more care and attention, keeping these stunning and active shrimp can be extremely rewarding.