There are obvious differences between black shell shrimp and small river shrimp in multiple aspects. The following is a detailed distinction based on appearance characteristics, living habits, and ecological roles: 1. Appearance characteristics
1. Body Size and Color - Black Shell Shrimp: Approximately 2 to 3 centimeters in length, with a variable body color that can change with the environment. However, the shell color is usually darker and lacks long arms- Small river shrimp: Small in size, with a transparent or semi transparent body, a soft and thin shell, and a color that is mostly green gray or light green, appearing fresh and elegant.
2. Claws and antennae - Black shell shrimp: There are two pairs of small claws, with concave inner surfaces of the two fingers, slightly spoon shaped, and brush like bristles at the end, which are sharp tools for scraping algae- Small river shrimp: With slender antennae and well-developed swimming feet, it moves agilely in the water, but its claws are not as obvious as those of black shell shrimp.
3. The angle between the eyes and the shape of the back - Black shell shrimp: The angle between the eyes is relatively small, about 120 to 150 degrees, and the back is relatively smooth- Small river shrimp: The angle between the eyes may be larger, and the shape of the back may vary from individual to individual, but generally not as smooth as black shell shrimp. 2、 Lifestyle habits
1. Food source - Black shell shrimp: mainly feeds on scraping algae, but also consumes animal and plant carcasses- Small river shrimp: Their food sources may be more diverse, including microorganisms, algae, small invertebrates, etc. in the water.
2. Living environment - Black shell shrimp: They prefer to live in water areas with dense aquatic vegetation and have certain requirements for water quality. They are adapted to water temperatures ranging from 10 to 28 ° C, with an optimal pH value of around 7 or 5- Small river shrimp: widely distributed in aquatic algae and grass in major rivers, lakes and streams in China, it has strong adaptability to the environment. 3、 Ecological Role
1. Cleaning function - Black shell shrimp: Due to its habit of scraping algae, it is often used as a cleaner in fish tanks or aquariums, helping to maintain clean water quality- Small river shrimp: Although it also has a cleaning effect, it is not as significant as black shell shrimp, and it exists more as a part of aquatic ecosystems.
2. Ornamental Value - Black Shell Shrimp: With a variety of body colors, it has certain ornamental value, especially when mixed with some gentle small ornamental fish, which can increase the ornamental value of the fish tank- Small river shrimp: Although it also has its unique charm, its ornamental value may be slightly inferior to that of black shell shrimp.
There are significant differences between black shell shrimp and small river shrimp in terms of appearance, living habits, and ecological roles. When distinguishing, the above factors can be comprehensively considered for judgment.