Yesterday I discussed what hybridization with Dwarf Shrimp was and today I will go into why I think it is a bad idea. Here is a list of reasons I believe so.

  • Possible release into the wild (major problems possible)
  • Slow down of the currently slow scientific research
  • Muddying of the gene pool
  • Loss of purity in the hobby
  • Added confusion for the hobbyist

Possible Release into the wild.

This problem could cause great problems and could lead to the loss of native Dwarf Shrimp species in the wild. The release of a non-native species of shrimp (hybrids are non-native to any waters) into the wild could have, and has historically shown, to have major effects on the local native shrimp populations.

A hybrid shrimp could possess a specific trait that the native shrimp does not and could out compete the shrimp for food and space. This would gradually eliminate and replace the native species with an invasive hybrid.

Another problem with release into the wild is the hybrid may breed with the local population, possibly introducing large problems with the natural population. They hybrid could posses a weakness to a local disease or water condition that the native population does not have. The introduction of this possible trait could devastate if not eradicate a local population.

Slow down of the currently slow scientific research

The current pace of scientific research on Dwarf Shrimp is quite slow. Adding new hybrid species to the mix would only slow down and confuse the research. When scientifically studying a population of shrimp it is far easier when hybrids do not have to be described.

Muddying of the gene pool

In a new hobby (Dwarf Shrimp husbandry is a relatively new hobby in North America) it is important that the hobbyist be able to recognize what shrimp they are caring for. While this is already difficult due to the VAST amount of Dwarf Shrimp found around the globe, muddying of the gene pool will only make this more difficult.

Hybrid shrimp are often difficult to identify as such. Because of the vast amount of Dwarf Shrimp that have not be described by science, there could easily be confusion about a shrimps origin.

Loss of purity in the hobby

This is one of the least important arguments to the world that I have, but one the more important to me. I enjoy having a pure line of shrimp. I enjoy what nature has created. Now don’t get me wrong, I also enjoy selectively bred shrimp (not hybridized), but a large majority of the shrimp I keep are “wild type” shrimp.

Added confusion for the hobbyist

The Dwarf Shrimp hobby already has quite a bit of confusion attached to it. Many hobbyists do not know what species a given shrimp is and there is a large amount of misinformation being spread.

Arguments for Hybridizing

  • Possibly genetically stronger shrimp
  • Possible better-looking shrimp
  • Greater control over aesthetics

I will attempt to refute the arguments for hybridization tomorrow. Again, any and all comments on this discussion are welcome!