Lava Tigers

Travis Stephenson March 9, 2025 This article is taken directly from Rare Shrimp web site. All credits and achievements are belong to the breeders, Travis Stephenson and Rare Shrimp

Lava Tigers

Introducing the extraordinary Lava Tigers, a pinnacle of rarity and exclusivity among Caridina shrimp variants. Born from meticulous breeding efforts by Hwa in Taiwan, these shrimp first emerged in 2023, stunning the shrimp-keeping community with their unparalleled beauty.

What sets Lava Tigers apart are their distinctive black or metallic purple/black carapace, adorned with intricate patterns and splashes of white, contrasted against a deep red or burgundy body resembling a fancy tiger. This combination of striking colors and patterns makes them a standout, showcasing the innovative achievement in successfully merging two dominant traits.

Variant Name

Lava Tigers

Breeder

Hwa Shrimp (Yang Zhenhua 楊振華)

First Appearance

2023

Country of Origin

Taiwan

Trait Inheritance

Breeds true. Offspring will be between competition grade and grade 3.

Because this is a very new variant. Expect ~5% of offspring to be G0 quality (as of 2024).

Physical Characteristics

The Lava Tigers boast a striking appearance characterized by a distinct black or metallic purple/black carapace adorned with intricate patterns and delicate splashes of white on the face. Their body mirrors the elegant stripes of a fancy tiger, featuring thick, solid white bands against a rich backdrop of deep red or burgundy. The legs are meticulously colored in patterns of white and black, adding to their complete appearance.

History

Behind closed doors, Hwa has diligently cultivated this variant over the past six years through painstaking selective breeding. Many details of this selective breeding process remain undisclosed, as is common with newly introduced rare shrimp varieties. This section will be updated as further insights are gained through interviews with Hwa.

Rare Traits

What sets this shrimp apart is Hwa groundbreaking achievement in selectively breeding two dominant traits into a single specimen, marking a significant milestone in the Caridina breeding field. This feat represents a profound challenge due to the complexities involved in maintaining genetic integrity and achieving desired phenotypic outcomes. The stark contrast between its metallic black carapace and the intricately striped burgundy body underscores the pioneering approach taken by Hwa in advancing selective breeding techniques within the industry.

Recognition

2023 – The German International Shrimp Contest – Dortmund

• Category 17: Caridina sp. Crossbreeds – 2nd place

2024 – North American International Shrimp Competition

• Category 14: Caridina sp. Innovation and Crossbreeds – 1st and 3rd place

Rarity and Exclusivity

Limited Availability

2024 is the first time Lava Tiger’s have been seen on the market. As of 6/15/24 there is only 1 hobbyist in Singapore who owns Lava Tigers.

Market Value

Single competition grade shrimp range from $3,000 – $6,000 USD a piece. (as of June 2024).

Collector’s Appeal

Beyond their rarity, Lava Tigers hold significant cultural and symbolic importance within the shrimp-keeping community. They symbolize the pinnacle of breeding innovation, reflecting the dedication and expertise of breeders like Hwa.

Lava Tigers mark a pioneering achievement as the first instance in the hobby where the distinct combination of red and black have been successfully bred, distinctly on a single specimen. The consistent inheritance of these traits demonstrates the advancements in selective breeding techniques. Lava Tigers represent a milestone in the evolution of shrimp breeding, inspiring enthusiasts with their unique beauty and scientific significance.