Are you looking for a colorful, low-maintenance addition to your aquarium? Look no further than the Cherry Shrimp, also known as Neocardina davidi. These little critters are a favorite among fish keepers for their vibrant red color and ease of care. But before you go out and buy a bunch of Cherry Shrimp, let's go over everything you need to know to keep them happy and healthy in your aquarium. From tank setup to breeding, we've got you covered. Let's get started!
Origins and History
Neocardina davidi, more commonly known as Cherry Shrimp, are freshwater shrimp that originate from Taiwan. The exact origins of this species are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been selectively bred from wild freshwater shrimp species to produce the vibrant red coloration that they are known for today.
The Cherry Shrimp was first introduced to the aquarium hobby in the early 2000s and quickly gained popularity due to its striking appearance and ease of care. Over time, different color variations of the Cherry Shrimp have been selectively bred, including yellow, blue, and green. Despite these variations, the classic red Cherry Shrimp remains the most popular among aquarists worldwide.
In the wild, Cherry Shrimp are found in slow-moving streams and rivers with plenty of aquatic plants. In aquariums, they thrive in similar conditions, with a planted tank providing them with the ideal environment to live and breed. With their stunning colors and active behavior, Cherry Shrimp have become a favorite among freshwater aquarium hobbyists.
Species
The Neocardina davidi, or Cherry Shrimp, belongs to the family Atyidae, which includes a wide range of freshwater shrimp species. Cherry Shrimp are one of the smallest shrimp species in the aquarium hobby, with adult females reaching a maximum size of around 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) and males being slightly smaller.
As previously mentioned, Cherry Shrimp are known for their striking red coloration, which is the result of selective breeding. However, they also come inother colors such as yellow, blue, and green, which have been selectively bred over time. Despite the color variation, the red Cherry Shrimp remains the most popular and widely available in the aquarium hobby.
In addition to their vibrant colors, Cherry Shrimp are also known for their active and social behavior. They can often be seen grazing on algae and other food sources, as well as interacting with other shrimp and fish in the tank. Overall, Cherry Shrimp are a great addition to any community aquarium, adding both color and personality to the tank.
| Species | |
| Name: | Cherry shrimp, Neocaridina shrimp, Red Cherry shrimp |
| Family: | Atyidae |
| Origin: | Taiwan |
| Care | |
| Care level: | Beginner-friendly |
| Life span: | up to 2 years |
| Diet | |
| Diet | Frozen meaty foods, Omnivore, Algae |
| Behavior | |
| Temperament: | Peaceful |
| Activity: | Active |
| Breeding: | Egg carrier |
| Aquarium | |
| Tank size: | 5 gallons |
| 19 liters | |
| Tank level: | All areas, prefer bottom |
| Flow rate: | Low |
| Planted tank: | Likes a densely planted tank |
| Aquarium parameters | |
| Temperature: | 65-80℉ |
| 18-27℃ | |
| pH Range: | 6.5-8 |
Tank Setup
When it comes to setting up a tank for Cherry Shrimp, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is important to provide plenty of hiding places and spaces for the shrimp to explore. This can be achieved through the use of plants, driftwood, and rocks.
Cherry Shrimp also require a planted tank with live plants, as they provide a source of food and hiding places. Plants such as Java Moss, Java Fern, and Anubias are great options for Cherry Shrimp tanks.
It's also important to make sure the water parameters are appropriate for Cherry Shrimp. They prefer a pH range of 6.5-8.0 and a temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C). Additionally, it's important to avoid using any copper-based medications in the tank, as copper is toxic to shrimp.
Lastly, it's important to keep the tank clean and maintain proper filtration. Cherry Shrimp are sensitive to high levels of ammonia and nitrite, so regular water changes and proper filtration are essential for their health and well-being.
Overall, a planted tank with plenty of hiding places, live plants, and appropriate water parameters is the best environment for Cherry Shrimp to thrive in.
Water Parameters
The quality of the water in the aquarium plays an essential role in keeping Cherry Shrimp healthy and thriving. In general, Cherry Shrimp prefer a pH range of 6.5-8.0, slightly hard water with a range of 6-8 dGH, and a temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C).
High levels of ammonia and nitrite can be harmful to Cherry Shrimp, so it's crucial to maintain a healthy nitrogen cycle in the aquarium by regularly changing the water and ensuring proper filtration. Cherry Shrimp are also less sensitive to nitrates, but it's still important to keep nitrate levels below 20 ppm.
It's crucial to avoid sudden changes in water parameters since they can cause stress and harm to the shrimp. Thus, it's recommended to monitor the water conditions regularly and make gradual changes to the water parameters as needed to keep the water quality within the ideal range for Cherry Shrimp.
Feeding
Feeding Cherry Shrimp is relatively easy and straightforward. They are scavengers and will consume algae, biofilm, and other detritus found in the aquarium. However, it's still important to supplement their diet with high-quality food.
You can feed your Cherry Shrimp a variety of foods, including:
- Commercial shrimp pellets or flakes: These are readily available at most pet stores and are formulated specifically for shrimp. Be sure to choose a high-quality brand that doesn't contain any harmful additives or fillers.
- Blanched vegetables: Cherry Shrimp love blanched vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and broccoli. Simply blanch the vegetables for a few minutes until they are soft, and then add them to the aquarium.
- Protein-rich foods: Cherry Shrimp also enjoy protein-rich foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. You can feed them these foods occasionally, but make sure not to overdo it since too much protein can harm their health.
It's important not to overfeed your Cherry Shrimp since excess food can pollute the water and harm their health. A good rule of thumb is to feed them a small amount of food every other day or so. This will ensure that they get the nutrients they need without polluting the water.
Behavior and Compatibility
Cherry Shrimp are peaceful and social creatures that are generally very easy to care for. They are relatively active and spend most of their time scavenging for food and exploring their surroundings. They are also known for their bright and vibrant colors, making them an attractive addition to any aquarium.
In terms of compatibility, Cherry Shrimp can be kept with other peaceful and non-aggressive species. However, it's important to avoid keeping them with larger, more aggressive fish that may view them as prey. Some good tankmates for Cherry Shrimp include small schooling fish like guppies, neon tetras or harlequin rasboras, as well as other peaceful shrimp species like Amano shrimp or Ghost shrimp.
Cherry Shrimp are also known to breed relatively quickly and easily, so it's important to ensure that the tank is not overstocked. Overcrowding can lead to stress and harm to the shrimp, so it's important to maintain proper water parameters and provide plenty of hiding spots and plants for them to explore and breed.
Overall, Cherry Shrimp are an excellent addition to any peaceful and well-maintained aquarium. They are relatively easy to care for and provide a unique and vibrant addition to any tank.
Diseases and Treatment
Like all aquarium inhabitants, Cherry Shrimp are susceptible to various diseases and health issues. Fortunately, with proper care and attention, many of these issues can be prevented or treated.
One of the most common health issues in Cherry Shrimp is bacterial infections, which can lead to symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, and discoloration. To prevent bacterial infections, it's important to maintain proper water quality and avoid overcrowding the tank.
If your Cherry Shrimp does become ill, there are several treatment options available. One of the most common treatments is the use of antibiotics, which can help to eliminate the bacterial infection. However, it's important to follow the instructions carefully and only use antibiotics as a last resort, as they can harm the beneficial bacteria in the tank and lead to further health issues.
Other common health issues in Cherry Shrimp include fungal infections, parasitic infections, and shell rot. If you notice any of these symptoms in your shrimp, it's important to isolate them immediately and begin treatment.
Prevention is always the best strategy, so it's important to maintain proper water quality, avoid overcrowding, and provide a healthy diet and environment for your Cherry Shrimp. By doing so, you can help to keep them healthy and thriving in your aquarium for years to come.
Breeding
Breeding Cherry Shrimp is relatively easy and straightforward, and they are known for their prolific breeding habits. In fact, a single female Cherry Shrimp can produce up to 30-50 offspring in a single breeding cycle!
To encourage breeding, it's important to provide a healthy and well-maintained environment for your Cherry Shrimp. This includes maintaining proper water quality, providing a variety of hiding spots and plants for the shrimp to explore and breed, and providing a high-quality diet that is rich in nutrients.
When Cherry Shrimp are ready to breed, the females will release pheromones into the water to attract males. The males will then fertilize the eggs, which are carried on the female's pleopods until they hatch.
Once the eggs hatch, the baby Cherry Shrimp will spend their first few days swimming through the water column before settling down and beginning to explore their surroundings. It's important to provide plenty of hiding spots and plants for the baby shrimp to explore, as well as a healthy diet that is rich in nutrients.
Overall, breeding Cherry Shrimp is a relatively easy and rewarding process that can provide you with a thriving colony of these beautiful and fascinating creatures. With proper care and attention, your Cherry Shrimp can continue to breed and thrive in your aquarium for many years to come.
Fun facts
Here are some fun and interesting facts about Cherry Shrimp that you may not know:
- Cherry Shrimp are native to Taiwan and southern China.
- They are known for their bright and vibrant colors, which can range from bright red to pale pink, yellow, and even blue.
- They are scavengers and will eat almost anything, including algae, fish food, and decaying plant matter.
- Cherry Shrimp are popular among aquascapers for their ability to help maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem in planted aquariums.
- They are sensitive to changes in water parameters and can be used as an indicator of the overall health of the aquarium.
- Cherry Shrimp are known to be very active and social, often exploring their surroundings and interacting with other shrimp and tankmates.
In conclusion
Neocaridina davidi, or Cherry Shrimp, are a popular and fascinating freshwater shrimp species that can be a great addition to any aquarium. These shrimp are known for their bright and vibrant colors, ease of care, and prolific breeding habits.
To ensure the health and well-being of your Cherry Shrimp, it's important to provide them with a suitable tank setup, proper water parameters, and a nutritious diet. Additionally, understanding their behavior and compatibility with other tankmates can help ensure a harmonious and thriving aquarium ecosystem.
While Cherry Shrimp are relatively hardy and adaptable, they are still living creatures that require proper care and attention. By following the guidelines outlined in this care guide, you can help ensure the long-term health and happiness of your Cherry Shrimp and enjoy their beauty and unique behaviors for years to come.