Plants or rocks for Sulawesi shrimp? Start with the exact species

For Cardinal shrimp, Caridina dennerli, stable accessible hard surfaces are a reasonable starting point: the species was described among rocks in Lake Matano. Dense planting is not required to reproduce that habitat. Plants are an optional addition only when they fit the actual water and care system.

Check a plant against the existing system

• Identify the plant and its own temperature and water requirements. “Easy aquarium plant” does not mean suitable for every warm alkaline setup.
• Preserve usable grazing surfaces, shelter and visibility. Do not let planting obstruct filtration or gas exchange.
• Keep dying material accessible for removal. A hard-to-reach plant mass complicates inspection.
• Check origin and treatment before introduction. Do not automatically change minerals, substrate or CO2 to grow one plant.

An open rocky layout still needs maintenance. Assess food access and water readings; a visible coating does not establish complete nutrition. Use Cardinal care for the full plan.

Sulawesi is a region with multiple species and habitats. For another species, begin again with identification and species information. Cardinal requirements cannot serve as a universal rule or exception for all Sulawesi shrimp.

Sources and scope

• von Rintelen & Cai (2009): Caridina dennerli, habitat and colour
• Garnelenhaus: Sulawesi-Kardinalsgarnele
• UF/IFAS: Dissolved Oxygen for Fish Production
• Tropica: Plant care FAQ

The original description documents the rock-associated habitat of Caridina dennerli. Garnelenhaus husbandry guidance concerns Cardinal. Layout judgement is editorial; habitat does not prove that all plants are forbidden or all Sulawesi species need the same aquarium.