Blue Dream Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina Davidi)

*Note: Images are used as an example only. Due to the nature of live animals, colouration, size and patterns may vary.*

Blue Cherry Shrimp
Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi
(The Blue Cherry Shrimp is a selectively bred colour morph.)

Overview
Blue Cherry Shrimp are vibrant freshwater shrimp known for their rich blue colouration and active, peaceful nature. They add visual interest and natural cleaning ability to any aquarium. While hardy and suitable for beginners, they show their deepest colour and strongest breeding activity when kept in stable, clean, well-planted environments.

Key Features

• Bright blue colouration ranging from mid-blue to deep blue
• Natural algae grazers and efficient scavengers
• Peaceful, social, and thrive in groups
• Hardy and adaptable
• Reproduce readily in freshwater tanks

Care Level: Easy
Blue Cherry Shrimp handle a broad range of conditions but benefit most from consistency and mature aquarium setups.

Habitat Requirements
Environment Type: Freshwater
Tank Size: Best in 20+ litres; can live successfully in tanks as small as 10 litres with stable maintenance
Temperature: Ideally 22–26°C; tolerates 20–28°C
Water Parameters: pH 6.8–7.6 preferred; stable 6.5–8.0 acceptable
Water Hardness: Moderate hardness supports strong moulting and shell health
Water Flow: Gentle, with sponge filtration recommended to protect young shrimp
Aquascape: Planted tanks with mosses, driftwood, and hiding spots help shrimp feel secure and show better colour, though simple setups work if cover is provided

Diet
Primary Diet: High-quality shrimp pellets or wafers
Variety: Occasional blanched vegetables and protein-rich supplements promote growth and breeding
Flexible Options: They naturally feed on algae, biofilm, and leftover fish food
Feeding Frequency: Light feedings once daily or every other day, avoiding excess

Compatibility
Tank Mates: Peaceful nano fish, snails, and other Neocaridina shrimp
Avoid: Aggressive fish or species large enough to prey on shrimp
Temperament: Peaceful and constantly active as they graze and explore

Size and Lifespan
Adult Size: 2–3 cm
Typical Lifespan: 1–2 years, longer with excellent care

Behaviour and Activity
Blue Cherry Shrimp are busy grazers, often seen picking at surfaces, exploring plants, and interacting gently within the colony. They show their best activity in well-planted tanks where they feel secure.

Special Requirements or Considerations
Stable, clean water is essential. Avoid copper-based medications or fertilizers. A mature, cycled tank improves survival rates of young shrimp and enhances adult colouration.

Ideal For

• Beginners and experienced shrimp keepers
• Planted and nano aquariums
• Peaceful community setups
• Aquarists seeking natural algae control and vibrant colour

Additional Notes
Blue Cherry Shrimp thrive when their environment is stable, warm, and enriched with plants and biofilm. While adaptable, providing optimal care results in brighter colour, more natural behaviour, and healthier, steady colony growth.