Cherry Shrimp Care Guide
Neocaridina davidi
Key Takeaways
- Cherry Shrimp needs at least 5 gallons, with 10 gallons preferred.
- Keep water between 20-26°C and pH 6.5-8.
- Keep a group of at least 6 to reduce stress.
Quick Facts
Difficulty: beginner
Min Tank: 5 gallons
Size: 3 cm
Group: 6+
Temperature: 20-26°C
pH: 6.5-8
Temperament: peaceful
Swimming: bottom
Diet: omnivore
Lifespan: 1-2 years
Care Overview
Cherry shrimp are popular freshwater shrimp known for their bright red color. They are excellent algae eaters and easy to breed.
Ideal Tank Setup
A 5+ gallon planted tank with moss and hiding spots. They prefer stable water parameters. Avoid copper-based medications. A sponge filter is ideal to prevent babies being sucked up.
Diet and Feeding
Omnivores that eat algae, biofilm, and decaying plant matter. Supplement with shrimp pellets and blanched vegetables. Feed sparingly.
Best Tank Mates
- Small tetras
- Corydoras
- Snails
- Other peaceful small fish
Fish to Avoid
- Bettas (may eat them)
- Cichlids
- Any fish with a mouth big enough to eat them
Common Problems
- Dying after water changes (parameter shock)
- Copper sensitivity
- Not breeding (stress or poor diet)
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Using a tank smaller than 5 gallons, which makes water quality harder to keep stable.
- Ignoring adult size, group size, or temperament when choosing tank mates.
- Changing too much water or filter media at once before checking ammonia and nitrite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cherry shrimp live with bettas?
Sometimes, but it's risky. Many bettas will eat shrimp. If you try it, provide lots of hiding spots and expect to lose some shrimp.
Related Tools
Sources and Review Process
- Freshwater aquarium husbandry references for water quality, tank size, and stocking guidance.
- Species profiles and compatibility rules maintained in the AquaScience AI data set.
- Aquarium health guidance is educational and should not replace an aquatic veterinarian for severe symptoms.