The saddle markings on cherry shrimp are a distinctive feature that indicates a female's readiness to breed. Here’s what to look for:
Appearance of Saddle Markings
Location: The saddle is located on the back of the female shrimp, just behind the head and before the tail.
Color: It typically appears as a yellow or greenish patch, which is actually a cluster of unfertilized eggs. This coloration can vary slightly depending on the shrimp's overall color and health.
Shape: The saddle is often described as resembling a saddle in shape, hence the name. It is somewhat curved and can be seen prominently when the shrimp is viewed from above.
Visibility: The saddle becomes more pronounced and visible when the female is ready to mate. If the shrimp is healthy and well-fed, the saddle will be more vibrant.
Development: As the female matures and prepares to breed, the saddle may grow larger, indicating that she has developed eggs that are ready for fertilization.
Key Points
- Females Only: Only female cherry shrimp will display saddle markings; males do not have this feature.
- Breeding Indicator: The presence of a saddle is a clear sign that the female is ready to breed, which typically occurs shortly after she molts.
By observing these characteristics, you can easily identify whether your cherry shrimp are female and ready for breeding based on the saddle markings.