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Cherry Shrimp Care Guide

Neocaridina davidi

Cherry shrimp are small, colorful freshwater invertebrates known for their bright red coloration and peaceful nature. They’re excellent for nano tanks, planted aquariums, and make great algae cleaners.

📋 Quick Facts

TraitInfo

Size1–1.5 inches (2.5–3.8 cm)

Lifespan1–2 years

TemperamentPeaceful

DietOmnivore / Algae grazer

Water Temp65–80°F (18–27°C)

pH Range6.5–8.0

Hardness4–8 dGH

Tank Size3 litres and up

🏠 Tank Setup

  • Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons for a small colony; 10+ gallons is better for stability.

  • Substrate: Fine gravel or shrimp-specific substrate. Dark substrate enhances color.

  • Plants & Decor:

    • Live plants (Java moss, Anubias, Hornwort, etc.)

    • Driftwood, leaf litter (like Indian almond leaves), and rocks for hiding places.

  • Filter: Sponge filter is ideal — gentle flow and fry-safe.

  • Lighting: Moderate lighting helps plant growth and shows off shrimp color.

  • Heater: Optional, but useful in cooler climates to keep consistent temps.

💧 Water Parameters

Cherry shrimp are sensitive to poor water quality, so stability is key:

  • Ammonia: 0 ppm

  • Nitrite: 0 ppm

  • Nitrate: <20 ppm

  • GH: 4–8 dGH

  • KH: 3–15 dKH

🚫 Avoid copper in medications and fertilizers — it’s toxic to shrimp.

Do 20–30% weekly water changes, using dechlorinated water with matched parameters.

🍽️ Diet

Cherry shrimp are scavengers and algae grazers — very easy to feed:

  • Staple: Algae, biofilm, high-quality shrimp pellets or wafers.

  • Supplement:

    • Blanched veggies (zucchini, spinach, cucumber)

    • Shrimp-specific foods (e.g., Bacter AE, Shrimp King)

    • Occasional protein (tiny bit of bloodworm or fish flake)

Feed very small amounts 3–4 times per week. Uneaten food should be removed after a few hours.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Behavior & Tank Mates

Cherry shrimp are peaceful, social, and happiest in groups (10+).

  • Best kept in species-only tanks, or with very peaceful tank mates.

  • Good tank mates:

    • Nerite snails

    • Otocinclus catfish

    • Small rasboras (e.g., chili rasboras)

    • Pygmy corydoras

❗ Avoid bettas, gouramis, or any fish big enough to eat them.

🐣 Breeding

Cherry shrimp breed readily under good conditions.

  • No special setup needed if water parameters are stable.

  • Females carry eggs under their abdomen ("berried") for ~3–4 weeks.

  • Fry are tiny versions of adults; they hatch fully formed and feed on biofilm.

  • Ensure plenty of moss and surface area for fry to hide and graze.

Keep shrimp-safe filters and avoid large, sudden water changes.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • Molting problems: Caused by unstable water parameters or low calcium.

  • Poor survival rates: Often due to predators, lack of biofilm, or copper exposure.

  • Color loss: Stress, poor diet, or crossbreeding with wild types can fade color.

🔧 Tips for Success

  • Start with a healthy group from a reputable breeder (aim for 10+).

  • Acclimate slowly to prevent shock (drip acclimation is best).

  • Let your tank age a bit before adding shrimp (biofilm = baby food).

  • Test water regularly — stability > perfection.

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