Neocaridina Shrimp | Healthy Home-Bred Color Morphs

Shop healthy, colorful Neocaridina shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) from Shrimp Up Aquatics. Choose from popular varieties including Fire Red Cherry, Blue Dream, Blue Velvet, Yellow Golden Back, Orange Sunkist, Green Jade, Rili shrimp and more. Our Neocaridina are carefully raised and shipped throughout the United States with our Live Arrival Guarantee.

Complete Neocaridina Shrimp Care, Parameters & Buying Guide

Dwarf freshwater shrimp of the species Neocaridina davidi are among the most vibrant, hardy, and beginner-friendly invertebrates in the aquarium hobby. At Shrimp Up Aquatics, every colony is tank-raised in optimal conditions and inspected for peak health. All orders are backed by our 100% Live Arrival Guarantee with Free Shipping on orders $30+.

Ideal Neocaridina Water Parameters

While Neocaridina are adaptable to a wide range of tank conditions, maintaining consistent total dissolved solids (TDS) and correct general hardness (GH) is vital for preventing molt failure and encouraging breeding.

Parameter Target Range Notes
pH 6.8 – 7.8 Thrives best in neutral to slightly alkaline water.
General Hardness (GH) 4 – 8 dGH Essential for shell formation and successful molting.
Carbonate Hardness (KH) 2 – 6 dKH Buffers water against sudden pH crashes.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) 150 – 250 ppm Monitor closely during water changes to avoid parameter shock.
Temperature 68°F – 78°F (20°C – 25°C) Warmer temperatures increase metabolism and breeding speeds.
Nitrate (NO3) < 20 ppm Requires established biological filtration; highly sensitive to ammonia.

Popular Neocaridina Color Lines We Offer

Modern commercial Neocaridina varieties are line-bred from wild morphs. To keep strains pure, explore our distinct color selections:

  • Red Lineage: Includes classic Cherry Shrimp, high-grade Fire Reds, and solid Painted Fire Reds. Distinct Bloody Mary morphs feature translucent red tissue.
  • Blue Lineage: Featuring deep Blue Dream Shrimp, vibrant Blue Velvets, and opaque Blue Diamonds that stand out against dark substrates.
  • Yellow & Orange Lineage: Ranging from bright Yellow Backs with solid dorsal stripes to vivid Sunkist Orange varieties.
  • White & Patterned Morphs: Pure white Snowball Shrimp for bright contrast in planted tanks, alongside high-contrast Red Rili and Carbon Rili variants.

Dietary Requirements, Biofilm & Tank Setup

Neocaridina are continuous grazers that feed heavily on micro-fauna and naturally occurring tank biofilm. Enhance baby shrimplet survival by adding Indian Almond Leaves and Alder Cones to generate natural grazing surfaces.

In addition to natural biofilm, feed high-protein foods rich in spirulina and calcium. Insufficient general hardness leads to the "white ring of death"—a fatal gap in the carapace caused by incomplete molts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you mix different colors of Neocaridina shrimp in one tank?

Yes, different colors can live together peacefully. However, because all color morphs belong to the same species (Neocaridina davidi), they will interbreed. Over 2 to 3 generations, cross-bred offspring will lose their vibrant coloration and revert to wild-type brown patterns.

How fast do Neocaridina shrimp reproduce?

Under optimal parameters (72°F–75°F with abundant biofilm), a mature female carries eggs for approximately 21 to 30 days. Each brood produces 20 to 30 fully formed baby shrimplets that feed on micro-biofilm immediately after hatching.

What filtration is safest for dwarf shrimp?

Air-driven sponge filters or matten filters are ideal because they cannot suck up newborn shrimplets and offer maximum surface area for grazing. If using a canister or hang-on-back filter, install a high-density pre-filter sponge over the intake tube.

FAQs About Neocaridina Shrimp

Are Neocaridina shrimp easy to care for?

Yes! They are one of the easiest freshwater shrimp species to keep, thanks to their adaptability and minimal care requirements.

What do Neocaridina shrimp eat?

They enjoy algae, biofilm, and leftover fish food. You can supplement their diet with shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, and calcium-based snacks to support molting.

How often should I feed them?

Feed small amounts every 2–3 days. Make sure to remove any leftovers after a few hours to maintain water quality.

Will Neocaridina breed in my tank?

Absolutely! With stable water conditions and no predators, they breed readily. You’ll likely spot baby shrimp within a few weeks.

How many Neocaridina can I keep in a 10-gallon tank?

Start with 10–15 shrimp. As the colony grows through breeding, make sure your tank's filtration and bio-load capacity can support the increase.

Can Neocaridina shrimp live with fish?

Yes, but choose peaceful, shrimp-safe fish like ember tetras or otocinclus. Avoid aggressive or large species that might prey on shrimp.

Do Neocaridina need a heater or filter?

They do best with gentle filtration like a sponge filter. Heaters are optional unless your room temperature regularly drops below 68°F.

How long do Neocaridina shrimp live?

Typically 1–2 years. A healthy tank, good diet, and stable water conditions can extend their lifespan.