Neocaridina davidi
Cherry Shrimp
A rewarding companion for an owner who has researched its needs honestly. As with every animal on this site, this profile is a starting point: confirm details with a vet or specialist before bringing one home.
AtyidaeLifespan 1–2 yearsCare complexity 2/5Suitable for beginners
Representative fish photography; individual appearances vary.
At a glance
- Scientific name
- Neocaridina davidi
- Family
- Atyidae
- Origin
- Taiwan (selectively bred from wild Neocaridina)
- Lifespan
- 1–2 years
- Adult size
- 2–4 cm
- Weight
- Under 1 g
- Temperament
- Peaceful, industrious algae-grazer; bright red in good grades.
- Activity level
- Constant grazing.
- Social needs
- Highly social; keep in groups of at least 6–10.
- Intelligence
- Minimal.
- Noise
- Silent.
Housing and environment
- Housing
- Minimum 20 litres, densely planted, with a sponge filter or covered intake.
- Space requirement
- Nano-tank suitable.
- Temperature
- 20–26 °C.
- Humidity
- Not applicable.
- Exercise
- Grazes surfaces all day.
- Grooming
- Moults as it grows; leave shed exoskeletons to be eaten.
Diet and feeding
Biofilm and algae, supplemented with shrimp pellets and blanched vegetables.
Behaviour and compatibility
Breeds readily in stable water; colour intensity reflects line quality and conditions.
- With children
- Good observed pet; too delicate for handling.
- With other animals
- Any fish large enough will eat them; keep with small peaceful fish or alone.
- Training difficulty
- Not trainable.
Health
- Copper poisoning from medications and tap water
- Failed moults in unstable water
- Bacterial infections in poor conditions
Never use copper-based treatments in a shrimp tank; check medication labels carefully.
Special care requirements
See the housing, diet and health sections — this species has needs that are easy to underestimate.