Cherry Shrimp Care Sheet
Neocaridina davidi
The most popular freshwater shrimp in the hobby. Cherry shrimp are prolific breeders, excellent algae eaters, and come in color grades from pale to deep blood red.
65–80°F
6.5–8
5 gallons
1–2 years
1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm)
10+ (colony species — more is better)
Very easy — females carry eggs under their body (berried). Fry are miniature adults. Colony will grow rapidly with good conditions.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivore/detritivore — biofilm, algae, shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, calcium-rich foods. They graze constantly.
Natural Habitat
Native to streams in Taiwan. Prefer densely planted tanks with moss and hiding spots.
Care Tips
No copper-based medications — copper is lethal to shrimp
Java moss and cholla wood provide perfect grazing surfaces
Females with deeper red color produce higher-grade offspring
Drip acclimate over 1+ hour — extremely sensitive to parameter changes
Keep with peaceful fish only — most fish will eat baby shrimp
Tank-Mate Compatibility
Compatible Species (19)
Use Caution (2)
Incompatible (5)
Angelfish
Angelfish will eat cherry shrimp on sight.
African Cichlid
Cichlids will eat shrimp. Never combine.
American Cichlid
Cichlids will eat shrimp on sight.
Knifefish
Knifefish are predatory and will eat small shrimp.
Puffer
Puffers eat invertebrates — shrimp are food, not tank mates.