Cherry Shrimp Care & Buying Guide | Red Cherry Shrimp at Micro Aquatic Shop

Cherry Shrimp Care: A Beginner's Guide to Red Cherry Shrimp (For Real Hobbyists Too)
Red Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) are one of the most popular species in the freshwater aquarium world — not just because of their striking red coloration, but also their incredible algae-cleaning ability, ease of care, and fast reproduction. If you're looking for a shrimp that's beautiful and works hard, this is the ideal pick.


Why Are Cherry Shrimp So Popular?




1. Aesthetic Appeal
Their vivid red color contrasts beautifully against green plants and dark backgrounds. High-grade varieties like Fire Red or Bloody Mary are especially striking, making them stunning focal points in any aquarium.
2. Natural Algae Control
Cherry Shrimp are natural cleaners. They feed on algae, leftover food, and biofilm, helping to maintain a healthy, clean tank environment.
3. Low Maintenance
They adapt well to a range of water parameters, making them ideal for beginners. Their peaceful temperament allows them to coexist with small, non-aggressive fish.
4. Easy to Breed
Given the right conditions, Cherry Shrimp reproduce readily, making them perfect for hobbyists interested in building a colony.

Ideal Cherry Shrimp Tank Setup



Creating the right environment is essential for the health, color, and breeding of your Cherry Shrimp.
1. Tank Size
Start with at least 10 liters for a small group. Ideally, use 20 liters or more for stable water conditions.
2. Water Parameters
Temperature: 22–27°C
pH: 6.5–7.4
TDS: 150–200 ppm
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: <20 ppm
Use a sponge filter to prevent shrimp from being sucked in and to support biological filtration.
3. Substrate & Plants
Use dark substrate to enhance red coloration.
Add live plants such as Java Moss, Anubias, and Bucephalandra for hiding spots and biofilm.
Include driftwood and shrimp shelters to reduce stress.
4. Lighting & Filtration
Use moderate lighting to support plant growth without overheating.
Choose sponge or gentle flow filters to avoid disrupting the shrimp.

Suitable Tank Mates for Cherry Shrimp




Choose peaceful species that won’t harass or prey on shrimp.
Recommended Tank Mates:
Nerite snails – algae cleaners and shrimp-safe
Otocinclus catfish – gentle algae eaters
Small tetras (e.g., ember, neon) – colorful and community-friendly
Rasboras – active but non-aggressive
Other dwarf shrimp like Yellow Shrimp or Rili Shrimp
👉 All of these tank mates are available at Micro Aquatic Shop – easily build your ideal shrimp community tank!

Breeding Cherry Shrimp


Cherry Shrimp breed easily in well-maintained aquariums.
1. Maturity
They reach sexual maturity around 4–5 months of age.
2. Breeding Signs
Females show a yellow “saddle” (eggs in ovary)
After mating, fertilized eggs appear under the tail (berried shrimp)
3. Raising Shrimplets
Babies are fully formed and feed on biofilm
Keep water clean and free from predators
Avoid strong filtration that could suck them in

Common Problems & How to Fix Them


1. Molting Issues
Caused by unstable water parameters or sudden changes
Maintain consistent GH (6–8) and avoid temperature shocks
2. Color Fading
Often due to stress or poor nutrition
Improve water conditions and provide high-protein, carotenoid-rich foods
3. Sudden Death
May be caused by copper (from meds or fertilizers)
Test tap water or use dechlorinated RO water

Where to Buy Cherry Shrimp in Australia
Looking for healthy, vibrant Red Cherry Shrimp delivered to your door?
Micro Aquatic Shop offers:
High-grade shrimp with brilliant color
Safe, insulated shipping
Expert guidance for beginner shrimp keepers
Micro Aquatic Shop stands out for its reliable service and premium livestock quality.

Start Your Cherry Shrimp Journey

Whether you're new to aquascaping or a seasoned hobbyist, Cherry Shrimp are an excellent species to consider. They’re colorful, helpful, easy to care for, and enjoyable to breed. With the right setup, clean water, and a bit of attention, you’ll soon have a thriving colony that brings life and beauty to your aquarium.
Ready to get started?
👉 Buy Red Cherry Shrimp now at Micro Aquatic Shop

FAQ

Q: What are Cherry Shrimp?


Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) are freshwater dwarf shrimp native to Taiwan. They belong to the Neocaridina genus and have been selectively bred for their bright red coloration. The term Red Cherry Shrimp specifically refers to this red morph.
They are peaceful, small (1.5 to 2.5 cm), and known for thriving in a wide range of tank conditions. Thanks to their vibrant appearance and practical benefits, Cherry Shrimp have become increasingly popular in home aquariums around the world.

 

How long do Cherry Shrimp live?

On average, Cherry Shrimp live between 1.5 to 2 years in a well-maintained tank. Their lifespan can be affected by water quality, diet, and temperature stability. With proper care, some individuals can even live slightly longer.


How often do Cherry Shrimp breed?
Once mature (around 4–5 months of age), Cherry Shrimp breed regularly under stable tank conditions. A healthy female can carry fertilized eggs ("berried") every few weeks, and new shrimplets will appear about 3–4 weeks later. With good water parameters and no predators, you can expect a thriving colony to form over time.


Can Cherry Shrimp live in a community tank?
Yes – but only with peaceful tank mates. Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish like cichlids, which may see shrimp as food. Ideal tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, Otocinclus catfish, snails like nerites, and other dwarf shrimp species. A planted tank with hiding spots helps shrimp feel safe and encourages natural behavior.


Do Cherry Shrimp need a heater or filter?
In most indoor setups, a heater is recommended to maintain a consistent temperature between 22–27°C. A sponge filter is ideal because it provides gentle filtration, biological support, and is safe for baby shrimp (shrimplets). Avoid strong filters that could suck in the shrimp.


What do Cherry Shrimp eat?
Cherry Shrimp are scavengers. They graze on algae, biofilm, and leftover food. To supplement their diet, feed them specialized shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach), and high-protein foods occasionally. A varied diet supports better color and health.

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