Triop Longicaudatus (Red Variant)

Rare Red Triops (Triops longicaudatus) are a captive-bred, albino genetic variant of the standard Triops longicaudatus tadpole shrimp, distinguished by their translucent shell and striking red pigmentation. Their reduced pigmentation allows internal organs and anatomical structures to be more easily observed, making them particularly fascinating to study.

These prehistoric freshwater crustaceans belong to an ancient lineage that has survived for hundreds of millions of years, adapting to temporary pools that periodically dry out. Their visible internal anatomy, rapid growth, and short lifecycle make them excellent educational pets for science classrooms and biology lessons, allowing students to observe development, reproduction, and adaptations for survival firsthand.

At Brine Shrimp Factory, all products are quality guaranteed and batches are regularly checked for consistency and quality.

Each order will contain a vial that has approx. 100 Triop Eggs

Recommended Hatching Instructions

To hatch Rare Red Triops eggs, you will need a clean container, suitable freshwater, a light source, and a thermometer.

1. Hatching container preparation

• Use a clean, transparent container (1–2 litres).

• Fill with shallow, low-mineral freshwater, such as suitable spring water or remineralised purified water.

• Maintain a water depth of approximately 3–5 cm.

• Provide bright artificial lighting for 12–16 hours daily.

• Allow the water temperature to stabilise before adding eggs.

2. Optimal hatching conditions

• Temperature: 24–28°C.

• pH: Approximately 7.0–8.0.

• Sprinkle eggs onto the water surface and allow them to hydrate naturally.

• Provide consistent lighting and stable temperatures.

• Avoid strong aeration, filtration, or excessive water movement.

• Do not add salt or use chlorinated tap water.

3. Hatching and early care

• Triops typically begin hatching within 24–72 hours under suitable conditions.

• Newly hatched Triops are extremely small and may be difficult to see initially.

• Begin feeding tiny amounts of powdered spirulina or suitable fry food once they are actively feeding, generally after the first 24–48 hours.

• Feed sparingly to prevent water fouling.

• Once established, gradually introduce finely crushed sinking pellets and other suitable foods.

• Transfer growing Triops into a larger aquarium after approximately 5–7 days, once sufficiently developed.

Lifecycle and Care Requirements

1. Growth and development

• Triops grow rapidly, often reaching several centimetres within 2–3 weeks.

• Adults may reach approximately 5–8 cm in length, including their tail.

• Provide at least 5–10 litres of water per adult, with additional space for multiple Triops.

• Use fine sand as a substrate to encourage natural digging and egg-laying behaviour.

• Maintain clean, stable freshwater and avoid sudden changes in temperature or water chemistry.

2. Reproduction and lifespan

• Triops may reach reproductive maturity within approximately 2–3 weeks.

• Mature Triops deposit drought-resistant resting eggs into sandy substrate.

• Their typical lifespan is approximately 6–12 weeks, depending on environmental conditions.

• Eggs can remain dormant in dried substrate for extended periods, allowing future generations to hatch when favourable conditions return.

• To attempt a new generation, collect egg-bearing sand, allow it to dry thoroughly, and rehydrate it under suitable hatching conditions.

Store Triops eggs in a cool, dry, dark location in an airtight container. Keep away from moisture, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures.

Note: Hatching times, colour expression, growth rates, and lifespan may vary depending on genetics, egg quality, storage conditions, and environmental factors. The red colour variation is a genetic trait, although its intensity may vary between individuals.