Cherry Shrimp

• ExerciseLow

  A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• GroomingEasy tank upkeep

  No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment1–2 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Skin conditions · Ich (white spot) · Respiratory issues

The cherry shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) is a freshwater dwarf shrimp native to the streams and ponds of Taiwan, selectively bred to its familiar bright red. Adults reach just 2.5–4 cm and live about 1–2 years, but a colony renews itself continuously through steady breeding. They are among the easiest invertebrates for planted tanks. A colony thrives in a planted nano tank of 20 litres or more at 18–28°C, ideally 22–24°C, with a pH of 6.5–8.0. The single most important rule is zero copper, which is lethal to shrimp, so check medications and fertilisers. Provide moss, plants and biofilm-covered surfaces, and use gentle, sponge-covered filtration so tiny shrimplets are not sucked in. Cherry shrimp are grazing omnivores that live on algae, biofilm and detritus, supplemented with blanched vegetables and specialised shrimp food. Peaceful and tiny, they can be eaten by most fish, so keep them alone or with nano fish. Their main risks are failed molts from unstable mineral levels and sensitivity to ammonia and copper; stable, mature water keeps the colony flourishing.

• How active is a Cherry Shrimp?

  Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• How much maintenance does a Cherry Shrimp need?

  Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• What tank size does a Cherry Shrimp need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Cherry Shrimp a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Cherry Shrimp live?

  1–2 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Cherry Shrimp?

  Keep an eye out for Skin conditions, Ich (white spot), Respiratory issues. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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