Red Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)

The Red Cherry Shrimp is one of the most popular freshwater dwarf shrimp in the aquarium hobby. Known for its vibrant red coloration, peaceful nature, and ease of care, this shrimp is an excellent choice for planted aquariums, nano tanks, and dedicated shrimp colonies. Red Cherry Shrimp are active algae grazers that help keep aquariums clean while adding beautiful color and constant activity to the tank.

What We Like About This Shrimp

• Bright red coloration
• Excellent algae and biofilm grazer
• Peaceful and community-friendly
• Easy to care for and breed
• Ideal for planted and nano aquariums
• Great choice for beginners and experienced hobbyists

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 healthy shrimp and successful 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

Red Cherry Shrimp thrive in mature planted aquariums with abundant biofilm and 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 plant growth provides shelter for shrimplets and encourages colony expansion.

Diet and Feeding

Red Cherry Shrimp spend most of their time grazing throughout the aquarium.

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

Red Cherry 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 large fish and species known to prey on shrimp.

Why Keep Red Cherry Shrimp?

The Red Cherry Shrimp is one of the easiest and most rewarding freshwater shrimp to keep. Its vibrant red coloration, peaceful temperament, algae-cleaning abilities, and prolific breeding make it a favorite among aquascapers and shrimp enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re setting up your first shrimp tank or building a thriving planted aquarium, Red Cherry Shrimp are an excellent addition that combines beauty, activity, and practicality.