Bloody Mary Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)

The Bloody Mary Shrimp is one of the most sought-after Neocaridina shrimp varieties, prized for its exceptionally deep red coloration and translucent ruby-like appearance. Unlike many other red shrimp varieties, the intense red pigment extends throughout the body, giving these shrimp a striking and premium look in planted aquariums. Hardy, peaceful, and easy to breed, Bloody Mary Shrimp are an excellent choice for shrimp enthusiasts and aquascapers alike.

What We Like About This Shrimp

• Deep ruby-red coloration
• Premium-grade Neocaridina variety
• Excellent algae and biofilm grazer
• Peaceful and community-friendly
• Easy to care for and breed
• Ideal for planted and nano aquariums

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 parameters 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 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

Bloody Mary Shrimp thrive in mature planted aquariums rich in biofilm and natural grazing surfaces.

Recommended Plants

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

Recommended Decor

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

Dense vegetation and mosses provide excellent shelter for shrimplets and help establish thriving colonies.

Diet and Feeding

Bloody Mary Shrimp are constant grazers and spend most of their time feeding on surfaces throughout the aquarium.

Suitable Foods

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

Feed sparingly to maintain optimal water quality.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

Bloody Mary Shrimp can be kept with peaceful nano fish and non-aggressive invertebrates.

Suitable tank mates include:

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

Avoid aggressive fish and species known to prey on shrimp.

Why Keep Bloody Mary Shrimp?

The Bloody Mary Shrimp is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful red Neocaridina varieties available. Its deep, translucent ruby-red coloration creates a stunning contrast against green plants and dark aquascapes. Combined with its peaceful nature, algae-cleaning abilities, and ease of breeding, the Bloody Mary Shrimp is an outstanding addition to any planted aquarium or dedicated shrimp colony.