Yellow 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.*

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

Overview
Yellow Cherry Shrimp are eye-catching freshwater shrimp known for their bright yellow colouration, active personalities, and ease of care. They add a vibrant contrast to planted aquariums and naturally assist with algae control. Although hardy and beginner-friendly, they show their most intense colour and best breeding success in stable, well-maintained, and suitably planted environments.

Key Features

• Brilliant yellow colouration that stands out in planted tanks
• Natural grazers of algae and biofilm
• Peaceful, social, and thrive in colonies
• Hardy, adaptable, and great for beginners
• Breed readily in freshwater systems

Care Level: Easy
These shrimp tolerate a broad range of conditions but do best with clean, stable water and a mature aquarium.

Habitat Requirements
Environment Type: Freshwater
Tank Size: Best results in 20+ litres; can be kept in tanks as small as 10 litres with careful, consistent 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 helps support healthy moulting
Water Flow: Gentle, preferably with sponge filtration to protect juveniles
Aquascape: Planted aquariums with mosses, fine-leaved plants, and hiding spots enhance comfort and colour. Simpler setups are acceptable if adequate cover is available.

Diet
Primary Diet: High-quality shrimp pellets or specialised shrimp foods
Variety: Occasional blanched vegetables and protein-rich supplements support growth and reproduction
Flexible Options: They graze naturally on algae, biofilm, and leftover fish food
Feeding Frequency: Light feedings once daily or every other day; avoid excess food

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

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

Behaviour and Activity
Yellow Cherry Shrimp are lively grazers that spend their time foraging on surfaces, exploring plants, and interacting calmly within their colony. They show more natural behaviour and stronger colouration in well-planted aquariums.

Special Requirements or Considerations
Stable, mature water conditions are key to their health and colour development. Avoid copper-based medications and fertilisers. Regular small water changes and plenty of biofilm-rich surfaces support juvenile survival and adult vibrancy.

Ideal For

• Beginners and experienced shrimp keepers
• Planted and nano aquariums
• Peaceful community environments
• Aquarists looking for natural algae control with standout colour

Additional Notes
Yellow Cherry Shrimp are most vibrant when kept in warm, clean, stable water with plenty of plant cover and natural grazing surfaces. Although forgiving of less-than-perfect conditions, they reward optimal care with enhanced colour, activity, and reliable colony growth.