Cherry Shrimp

Also known as: Neocaridina davidi

Cherry Shrimp are small, brightly colored freshwater invertebrates prized for their vibrant red hues and algae-eating habits. The Cherry Shrimp originates from Native to freshwater streams and ponds in Taiwan, China, and Japan, Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) inhabit slow-moving, vegetated waters with sandy or muddy substrates and abundant biofilm., reaches Adult size: 2.5 cm in captivity, typically lives 1.5 to 2 years under optimal aquarium conditions., and is kept at 20–26°C (68–79°F); ideal range 22–24°C (72–75°F).. Individual fish vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.

Species at a glance

Origin: Native to freshwater streams and ponds in Taiwan, China, and Japan, Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) inhabit slow-moving, vegetated waters with sandy or muddy substrates and abundant biofilm.
Adult size: Adult size: 2.5 cm (1 inch) for females, 2 cm (0.8 inches) for males.
Life span: 1.5 to 2 years under optimal aquarium conditions.
Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive; highly social and active grazers that thrive in groups.
Tank size: Minimum 10 liters (2.5 gallons) for a small colony; recommended 20 liters (5 gallons) or more for stable populations and breeding.
Water temp: 20–26°C (68–79°F); ideal range 22–24°C (72–75°F).
pH range: 6.5–8.0; tolerates slightly acidic to alkaline conditions but thrives near neutral (7.0–7.5).
Diet: Omnivorous scavengers; feed on biofilm, algae, detritus, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and specialized shrimp pellets or flakes.
Other names: Neocaridina davidi

About the Cherry Shrimp

Cherry Shrimp are small, brightly colored freshwater invertebrates prized for their vibrant red hues and algae-eating habits. They are hardy, easy to breed, and excellent additions to planted community tanks. Their constant grazing helps maintain tank cleanliness by consuming uneaten food and organic debris. Selective breeding has produced numerous color morphs beyond the classic red, including yellow, blue, and black variants.

Lifespan and health

Cherry Shrimp typically live 1.5 to 2 years in captivity, with females often outliving males due to less stress from molting and breeding cycles; optimal nutrition, stable water conditions, and minimal stress can extend lifespan toward the upper limit, while poor water quality or frequent fluctuations may reduce it to under a year. Common health issues include failed molting due to low calcium or iodine levels (visible as white rings or stuck exoskeletons), bacterial infections from poor hygiene (manifesting as lethargy, cloudy appendages, or milky appearance), and parasitic infestations like Vorticella (seen as fuzzy white growths on the shell), all preventable through regular water changes, mineral supplementation (e.g., crushed coral or shrimp mineral blocks), and avoiding overstocking.

Overview

Care and tank setup

For tank setup, use a minimum of 10 liters (2.5 gallons) with a sponge filter to prevent shrimp from being sucked into intake; provide dense live plants like Java moss, Anubias, or hornwort for grazing surfaces and hiding spots, and include driftwood or leaf litter to encourage biofilm growth. Maintain water parameters with weekly 10–20% water changes using dechlorinated water matched to tank temperature; avoid copper-based medications and test for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate regularly, keeping ammonia and nitrite at 0 ppm and nitrate below 20 ppm. Feed small amounts 2–3 times per week of blanched vegetables or shrimp-specific food, ensuring all food is consumed within 2–3 hours to prevent water quality degradation.

Adding a Cherry Shrimp? Research the species’ adult size and temperament carefully, quarantine new fish before introducing them to your tank, and buy from reputable aquarium stores or breeders.

Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Cherry Shrimp, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.