Troubleshooter

Why is my shrimp not molting?

Quick answerShrimp molt every 4-6 weeks naturally. Lack of molting indicates calcium deficiency, low TDS, parameter instability, or shrimp is too young/old. Add mineral stones + verify GH.

Possible causes (4)

1. Calcium deficiency

Shrimp need calcium for shell development. Add mineral stones (Salty Shrimp Mineral GH+) or Indian almond leaves.

2. TDS too low

Below 150 TDS, neocaridina struggle to molt. Target 200-300 TDS. Add Salty Shrimp GH+ remineralizer.

3. Parameter swings

TDS or GH drops abruptly during water changes can prevent molting. Match new water exactly.

4. Young or old

Shrimplets molt every 1-2 weeks; adults every 4-6 weeks. Old shrimp (12+ months) molt less.

What to do next

Test water first - many "behavior" issues are actually water-quality problems. Use the water parameter checker to score your test results, the disease symptom matcher if you observe physical signs, or the general diagnoser to narrow further. Browse the disease database if illness is suspected.

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