Black Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)

The Black Shrimp is a striking freshwater dwarf shrimp known for its deep black coloration and active nature. This popular Neocaridina variety creates a stunning contrast against green plants, light-colored substrates, and aquascaped aquariums. Hardy, peaceful, and easy to breed, Black Shrimp are an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced shrimp keepers looking to add a unique and elegant touch to their aquarium.

What We Like About This Shrimp

• Rich black coloration
• Excellent algae and biofilm grazer
• Peaceful and community-friendly
• Easy to care for and breed
• Ideal for planted and nano aquariums
• Creates stunning contrast in aquascapes

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Tank Size: Minimum 2 gallons (8 liters), 10 gallons (38 liters) recommended for colonies
• Temperature: 18–28°C (64–82°F)
• pH Level: 6.5–7.8
• GH: 6–15 dGH
• KH: 2–10 dKH
• TDS: 180–350 ppm

Stable water conditions are important for maintaining strong coloration and healthy breeding colonies.

Care Guidelines

• Diet: Omnivorous scavenger; feeds on algae, biofilm, shrimp foods, vegetables, and decaying plant matter
• Social Behavior: Extremely peaceful; thrives in groups and colonies
• Origin: Selectively bred color morph of Neocaridina davidi
• Average Adult Size: 2.5–3 cm (1–1.2 inches)
• Average Purchase Size: 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches)
• Plant Safe: Yes

Aquarium Setup

Black Shrimp thrive in mature planted aquariums with plenty of biofilm, mosses, and hiding places.

Recommended Plants

• Java Moss
• Christmas Moss
• Subwassertang
• Bucephalandra
• Anubias
• Java Fern

Recommended Decor

• Driftwood
• Cholla Wood
• Shrimp Shelters
• Leaf Litter
• Natural Botanicals

Dense planting and moss-covered surfaces provide ideal grazing areas and protection for young shrimp.

Diet and Feeding

Black Shrimp are active grazers and help keep the aquarium clean by consuming algae and biofilm.

Suitable Foods

• Shrimp pellets
• Algae wafers
• Blanched spinach
• Zucchini
• Indian Almond Leaves
• Shrimp-specific foods
• Natural biofilm

Avoid overfeeding to maintain excellent water quality.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

Black Shrimp can be kept with peaceful nano fish and other non-aggressive invertebrates.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Otocinclus Catfish
• Chili Rasboras
• Ember Tetras
• Nerite Snails
• Mystery Snails

Avoid large or aggressive fish that may prey on shrimp.

Why Keep Black Shrimp?

The Black Shrimp is an elegant and eye-catching Neocaridina variety that stands out beautifully in planted aquariums. Its rich dark coloration, peaceful temperament, and ease of care make it an excellent choice for shrimp keepers of all experience levels. Whether kept in a dedicated shrimp colony or as part of a planted community aquarium, Black Shrimp provide both visual appeal and practical algae-grazing benefits.