Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) are one of the best freshwater shrimp for both beginners and seasoned aquarists. They thrive in planted tanks, nano aquariums, and community setups (with shrimp-safe fish). Cherry shrimp spend the day grazing on biofilm, soft algae, and leftover foods, making them a fun, functional addition to any aquascape.
Color intensity can vary from shrimp to shrimp (and by line/grade). In a stable, well-fed tank with plenty of cover, they become more confident, active, and visible—especially against green plants and dark substrate.
Key Features & Benefits
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Hardy freshwater dwarf shrimp (great starter shrimp)
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Excellent algae/biofilm grazers for planted aquariums
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Peaceful & community-friendly (with non-predatory tankmates)
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Active and fun to watch—constantly picking and exploring
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Can breed in freshwater when conditions are stable
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Great for nano tanks and aquascapes
Aquarium Care Level
Easy (best results with stable parameters and a cycled tank)
Specifications
Species: Cherry Shrimp / Red Cherry Shrimp
Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi
Origin: Captive-bred lines (trade)
Adult Size: ~0.75–1.25 in (2–3 cm)
Lifespan: ~1–2 years (varies by care/temperature)
Temperament: Peaceful
Activity: Constant grazer
Recommended Tank Size: 5+ gallons (nano-friendly; bigger is more stable)
Ideal Water Parameters (general targets)
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Temperature: 68–78°F (20–26°C)
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pH: ~6.8–8.0
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GH: ~6–12 dGH
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KH: ~2–8 dKH
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Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm (must be fully cycled)
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Nitrate: keep low (commonly <20 ppm)
Tip: Stability beats perfection—shrimp do best when parameters don’t swing.
Compatibility
Shrimp-safe tankmates recommended.
Good with: snails, other peaceful nano fish (careful—many fish will eat baby shrimp).
Avoid: cichlids, goldfish, larger barbs/tetras, bettas (often), and anything known to hunt shrimp.
Best setup for breeding/survival: planted tank + moss + hiding spots (cholla wood, rock piles, shrimp tubes).
Feeding
Cherry shrimp mainly graze naturally, but they thrive with supplemental foods:
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Shrimp pellets/granules (high-quality staple)
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Blanched veggies (zucchini, spinach, green beans)
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Algae wafers (sparingly)
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Occasional protein treats (for growth & breeding—don’t overdo)
Feed small amounts—remove uneaten food to protect water quality.
Plant-Safe
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Planted tank safe: Yes
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Will not damage healthy plants (they mostly clean and graze)
What You’ll Receive
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Live Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)
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Quantity as selected: 1 at $3.99 each
Add nonstop movement and natural cleanup power to your aquarium with Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi, sometimes sold under older names like Neocaridina heteropoda). These hardy, peaceful dwarf shrimp are famous for their bright red coloration, easy breeding, and algae/biofilm grazing.
Common Names
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Cherry Shrimp
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Red Cherry Shrimp
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RCS Shrimp
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Neocaridina Cherry Shrimp
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Red Neocaridina Shrimp
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Sakura Shrimp (often used for higher-color red lines)
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Red Dwarf Shrimp
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Freshwater Dwarf Shrimp
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(Sometimes listed historically as Neocaridina heteropoda var. red / Neocaridina denticulata sinensis in older trade references)
Scientific / Latin Name: Neocaridina davidi
