Caridina is a diverse genus of freshwater shrimp, commonly known as "dwarf shrimp," native to Asia and prized both in the aquarium trade and as a food source in some regions. These small, translucent or brightly colored shrimp are found in rivers, streams, and lakes, especially in Southeast Asia. The top countries involved in the harvesting and farming of Caridina species include China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Taiwan. In these countries, Caridina shrimp are collected from the wild and increasingly farmed in aquaculture facilities, supporting local economies and export markets. While their commercial fishing for food is modest compared to other shrimp species, the global demand for ornamental Caridina—such as the popular Crystal Red and Bee shrimp—has driven significant industry growth, with these countries leading both export and innovation in breeding new color morphs.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kenya | 8,317 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.