Cherry Shrimp

Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) – Description & Care Guide

The Cherry Shrimp is a colorful, peaceful freshwater shrimp beloved for its algae-eating abilities and ease of care. Available in various red color grades (from pale to deep red), it's a great addition to planted tanks and nano aquariums.

Basic Description

• Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi

• Common Names: Cherry Shrimp, Red Cherry Shrimp (RCS), Neocaridina shrimp

• Appearance:

  • Semi-transparent red body (can vary from light pink to deep crimson)

  • Females are larger and redder than males

  • Grading tiers include: Sakura, Fire Red, Painted Fire Red, Bloody Mary

• Size: 1–1.5 inches (2.5–3.8 cm)

• Lifespan: 1–2 years

• Origin: Taiwan (captive-bred globally)

Note: Requires stable, clean water—avoid large or sudden parameter swings.

Diet & Feeding

• Natural Diet: Scavenger and algae grazer

• In Captivity:

  • Biofilm and soft algae (on plants, wood, glass)

  • Blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, cucumber)

  • Shrimp pellets, algae wafers, fish food crumbs

  • Occasional protein (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

• Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times per week (small amounts)

Remove uneaten food to avoid fouling the water.

Breeding

• Difficulty: Easy (in stable, peaceful tanks)

• Process:

  • No special setup required—just clean water and hiding places

  • Females carry green/yellow eggs under their tails (berried)

  • Babies are miniature versions—no larval stage

• No Need for Brackish Water: Unlike some shrimp, Cherry Shrimp breed in freshwater

Behavior & Tankmates

• Temperament: Very peaceful; social with other shrimp

• Activity: Constantly foraging; most active in low flow tanks

• Tankmates:

  • Best with: Other shrimp (Amano, Blue Velvet, etc.), snails (Nerite, Mystery), small peaceful fish (e.g., endlers, micro rasboras)

  • Avoid: Betta, cichlids, loaches, or any fish big enough to eat shrimp

Maintenance Tips

• Weekly 10–25% water changes

• Use sponge filters or shrimp-safe filtration

• Add botanicals like almond leaves or moss for biofilm and hiding

• Never use copper-based medications