One of the most popular and hardy freshwater invertebrates in the hobby. They come in a rainbow of selectively bred colors. They are excellent scavengers and algae eaters, perfect for nano planted tanks. They are completely peaceful and have a negligible bioload, though they are highly vulnerable to predation by almost any fish with a mouth large enough to eat them.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard / Color Morphs
Sold in various vibrant color grades and morphs. Regardless of color, their husbandry, size, and behavior remain identical. They are best kept in colonies. Note: Mixing different color morphs in the same tank will result in offspring reverting to 'wild-type' (brown/clear) over a few generations.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Blue Dream Shrimp, Yellow Golden Back, Green Jade Shrimp, Rili Shrimp, Bloody Mary, Snowball Shrimp, Fire Red, Sakura
Cherry Shrimp Care Summary
The Cherry Shrimp, scientifically known as Neocaridina davidi, belongs to the Invertebrates family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 3 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Cherry Shrimp requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 19 litres and a tank length of at least 30 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 18°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 6–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include established algae (otocinclus), plants - densely covered, and leaf litter/blackwater.
As a schooling species, Cherry Shrimp should be kept in groups of at least 6. The Cherry Shrimp is typically available in one standard form.
Similar Species
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black)
Caridina cantonensis
A sensitive, highly prized dwarf shrimp species known for its vivid red/white or black/white banding. Unlike the hardy Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina), Bee Shrimp require cool, soft, acidic water and typically require active buffering soil to thrive. They are peaceful grazers perfect for specific biotope setups.
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
A highly popular, industrious freshwater shrimp renowned for its unmatched algae-eating abilities. Popularized by aquascaper Takashi Amano, they are significantly larger and hardier than most dwarf shrimp (like Cherry Shrimp). They are notorious food-thieves during feeding time and excellent escape artists, requiring a tight-fitting lid. Their larvae require saltwater to develop, so they will not overpopulate in a freshwater aquarium.
Japanese Ricefish (Medaka)
Oryzias latipes
A hardy, small, and colorful fish native to East Asia. Extremely popular in the outdoor pond hobby and nano aquariums. They are 'amphidromous' (tolerant of salinity changes) and can survive a wide range of temperatures, making them excellent tub/pond fish. They are surface dwellers that look best when viewed from above (top-down).
Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
The most iconic South American Cichlid, known for its distinct arrowhead shape and majestic fins. While domestic strains are hardy, they remain cichlids: they are semi-aggressive predators that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras). They form loose shoals as juveniles but pair off and become territorial as they mature. Height is more important than length for this species.
Cherry Barb
Puntius titteya
A peaceful, schooling cyprinid endemic to the shaded streams of Sri Lanka. Unlike many of its barb cousins, the Cherry Barb is not a fin-nipper and makes an excellent community fish. They thrive in heavily planted aquariums with subdued lighting and leaf litter. Males display a striking cherry-red color, especially during spawning.
Goldfish (Comet / Common)
Carassius auratus
One of the most commonly kept and misunderstood fish in the hobby. Single-tailed goldfish (Comets, Commons, Shubunkins) are fast-growing, highly active coldwater fish that produce enormous amounts of waste. They are best suited for ponds or massive aquariums. They will uproot plants, sift substrate constantly, and eat anything that fits in their mouths.