Cherry Shrimp Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

A. Definition of Red Cherry Shrimp

The wild form of the shrimp species Neocaridina davidi (Bouvier 1904) was initially found in China, and the Korean was exported to Taiwan and Japan as live bait for fishing in rivers. In Taiwan, selective breeding led to the development of the cherry shrimp, which is now a popular aquarium species.

The export of the wild form of N. davidi from China to Taiwan and Japan highlights the global trade in live aquatic species and the potential impact these species can have on new environments. The use of N. davidi as live bait for fishing highlights the hardiness of these creatures, as they were able to adapt to their new environment and establish populations in recent locations. In Taiwan, selective breeding led to the development of the cherry shrimp, a popular aquarium species known for its vibrant red coloration.

This brief overview provides a glimpse into the fascinating history of cherry shrimp and highlights their evolution from a wild species to a popular aquarium breed. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a beginner, understanding the history of these creatures can deepen your appreciation for their unique qualities and the impact that they’ve had on their new habitats.

B. Overview of their popularity as aquarium pets

Red Cherry shrimp have become increasingly popular as aquarium pets due to their bright red color, ease of care, and compatibility with many other aquatic creatures. They are trendy among hobbyists who enjoy creating unique and visually appealing setups.

They are also a favorite among those who enjoy breeding and raising various aquatic creatures, as red cherry shrimp are relatively easy to produce and can reproduce in captivity. In addition to their attractive appearance, red cherry shrimp are also known for their peaceful behavior, making them a suitable addition to community aquariums with other mild fish and invertebrates.

Overall, their popularity as aquarium pets results from their bright coloration, ease of care, and peaceful demeanor, making them a versatile and appealing choice for aquarium enthusiasts.

C. Purpose and scope of the article

This article aims to provide a comprehensive and detailed guide on the essential cherry red shrimp, covering everything from their biology and anatomy to their care and maintenance in aquariums. The scope of this article is to provide in-depth information on all aspects of red cherry shrimp, including their suitability as pets, how to care for them in captivity, and the different factors that can impact their health and well-being.

The article will provide information relevant to both beginners that need basic cherry shrimp care knowledge and experienced aquarium hobbyists and will aim to provide practical and actionable advice that can be quickly followed and implemented. Additionally, the article will cover the various aspects of breeding Red cherry shrimp and the different methods for enhancing their color, making it a valuable resource for hobbyists interested in producing and maintaining these fascinating creatures.

II. Biology and Anatomy of Red Cherry Shrimp

A. Taxonomy and species information

Cherry shrimp belong to the species Neocaridina and are a type of freshwater shrimp that are native to many countries in Asia. They are part of the Atyidae family, the most prominent family of freshwater shrimp.

This variety is recognized for its bright red color, which sets it apart from other species. There is also a variety of red cherry shrimp known as Neocaridina davidi var. sakura, which is known for its pink coloration.

Cherry Shrimp Colors, Patterns, and Sizes

• Cherry shrimp have distinctive heads with a pointed noses with four antennae, each longer than the other. Cherry shrimp are covered by five pairs of legs and six overlapping shell segments. The shrimps can search for food through the mouth through three pairs of short legs. Cherry shrimp are available in various colors that have been classified as vibrating if the fish have been grown.
• Red Rili Shrimp
• Blue Dream Shrimp
• Orange Rili Shrimp
• Green Jade Shrimp
• Yellow Sakura Shrimp
• Snowball Shrimp
• Black Rose Shrimp
• Yellow Fire Shrimp
• Fire Red Cherry shrimp
• Chocolate Shrimp
• Super Red Shrimp
• Sakura Cherry Shrimp

Overall, the taxonomy and species information of red cherry shrimp are essential to understand, as it provides a basic understanding of their biology and genetics, which can be helpful in terms of understanding their care requirements and behavior.

B. Physical Characteristics (Shrimps Body)

Cherry shrimp are a dwarf shrimp species and belong to the genus Neocaridina, different from the genus Caridina. One key difference between the two genera is the size of their eggs. Neocaridina shrimp have more giant eggs than Caridina shrimp, making them easier to breed in captivity. Another difference is the shape of their pleopods, the appendages under their bodies used for swimming.

Neocaridina shrimp have a more rounded shape to their pleopods, while Caridina shrimp have a more pointed shape. Finally, the pattern of growth lines on the exoskeleton can be used to differentiate between Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp. However, this would require a microscope to see the three minor differences on the shrimp’s body.

Overall, while Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp are popular choices for aquarium enthusiasts, it is essential to understand the differences between the two genera to provide the best care and maintenance for the species being kept.

C. Cherry Shrimp Lifespan and Reproduction

Cherry shrimp have a relatively short life span, with most individuals living between 1 to 3 years. They are prolific breeders and can produce many offspring in their lifetime. They are oviparous, meaning they lay their eggs, which the male fertilizes.

A cherry shrimp with eggs is called being berried.

The eggs are typically carried by the female shrimp for 3-4 weeks, depending on the temperature, until they hatch into tiny shrimp identical to the parents. The tiny shrimp then go through several molts as they grow and mature until adulthood.

In an aquarium setting, red cherry shrimp are known for their ability to breed and reproduce quickly, which can result in large populations of shrimp over time. This is why monitoring their populations and maintaining proper water conditions is essential, as overcrowding can lead to stress, disease, and mass deaths. Additionally, it is essential to provide plenty of cover and food sources for the shrimp, as this can help to ensure that the population remains healthy and thriving.

In terms of male-to-female shrimp ratios, I find that 5-1 is a significant number: five female shrimp to 1 male shrimp.

Regarding their reproductive behavior, red cherry shrimp are known for their ease of breeding and the large number of offspring they can produce. This, along with their ability to reproduce quickly, makes them a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts looking to create a thriving aquatic environment.

D. Cherry shrimp size

The size of cherry shrimp can vary depending on a variety of factors, including water temperature and diet.

In colder water temperatures, cherry shrimp tend to grow larger in size. Female cherry shrimp can reach up to 4 centimeters in length in these conditions, while males are usually slightly smaller, reaching around 3 centimeters in length. This is because colder water temperatures typically result in a slower metabolism and slower growth rate, allowing the shrimp to grow for a longer period of time.

On the other hand, in warmer water temperatures, cherry shrimp tend to grow at a faster rate from birth but don’t live as long. This is because warmer water temperatures accelerate the shrimp’s metabolism and growth rate, allowing them to reach maturity at a faster pace but shortening their overall lifespan.

It’s important to note that the size of cherry shrimp can also depend on their diet. A varied diet with plenty of protein sources can help cherry shrimp grow larger and healthier. Additionally, ensuring that the aquarium water is well-maintained with appropriate levels of minerals and nutrients can also support healthy growth for cherry shrimp.

E. Cherry shrimp molting

Cherry shrimp, like other crustaceans, have a hard exoskeleton or outer shell that provides protection and support for their bodies. However, as cherry shrimp grow, their exoskeletons become too small and they need to shed them in a process called molting.

Molting typically occurs once a month for adult cherry shrimp, and more frequently for young shrimp as they need to grow more quickly. Before molting, the shrimp will stop eating and become less active. The old exoskeleton will then split, and the shrimp will begin to wriggle out of it. The new exoskeleton, which has been developing underneath the old one, will then harden over the course of several hours.

Molting is a natural process for cherry shrimp and is necessary for their growth and development. During molting, the shrimp will also shed any parasites or bacteria that may be present on their exoskeletons, helping to keep them healthy and free from disease.

It’s important to note that molting can also be a stressful time for cherry shrimp, as they are more vulnerable to predation and other stressors while their new exoskeleton is hardening. Providing plenty of hiding places and a calm, stress-free environment during molting can help to support the health and well-being of the shrimp.

III. Basic Red Cherry Shrimp Care

Caring for red cherry shrimp in an aquarium environment requires attention to several important factors, including water quality, temperature, lighting, food, and habitat.

Maintaining good water quality is critical for the health and care of cherry shrimp. The water should be clean, clear, and free of pollutants and toxins. Regular water changes should be performed, and a high-quality filtration system should be used to remove waste and keep the water clean.

I like to use a sponge filter in all my tanks because they work best for me (I have a lot of shrimp tanks). A sponge filter or power filter with a sponge pre-filter is recommended plus, I also think shrimp tanks do better with a primary sponge filter for the young to graze on.

The pH level of the water should be between 6.5 and 8, and the hardness should be between 4-12 dGH.

Cherry Shrimp Temperature: Cherry shrimp prefer a water temperature of between 68°F to 78°F. It is important to monitor the temperature regularly, as sudden changes can harm the shrimp. Unless your house is freezing, you do not need a heater in a cherry shrimp tank.

Lighting: Cherry shrimp do not require any special lighting, but they do prefer a well-lit environment. A low-intensity aquarium light can provide a light source, but it is important to avoid intense, direct lighting, as this can cause stress and harm the shrimp.

Cherry Shrimp Food: What Can I feed Cherry Shrimp? Cherry shrimp are detrivores meaning they will eat all manner of decaying matter, including plants and other things like dead fish to a biofilm growing on wood. It is essential to provide a balanced diet for the shrimp and to avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to poor water quality and harm the shrimp.

There are many foods for your shrimp, like algae wafers, bee pollen, shrimp pellets, vegetables, etc. Giving your shrimp a variety of different foods will make it more likely they’re getting all the nutrients they need to thrive

Habitat: Cherry shrimp prefer a well-planted freshwater aquarium environment with plenty of covers, such as plants, rocks, and caves. This provides them with a sense of security and helps to reduce stress. Additionally, providing adequate space for the shrimp to swim and move around is important, as overcrowding can lead to stress and disease.

A. Tank setup and requirements

When setting up a tank for cherry shrimp, it is important to consider several important factors, including size, equipment, and decoration.

Tank Size: The minimum recommended tank size for cherry shrimp is 10 gallons, although a larger tank is always better. The larger the tank, the more stable the water conditions will be, and the more space the shrimp will have to swim and explore.

Equipment: Essential equipment for a cherry shrimp tank includes a filter, heater(if you need one, most people won’t if your house is around 20c for most of the time)), thermometer, and light. The filter helps to keep the water clean and free of waste, while the heater helps to maintain a consistent temperature. The thermometer allows you to monitor the temperature while the light provides a light source and helps maintain aquatic plants’ health, if any.

Decoration: Cherry shrimp prefer a well-planted aquarium environment with plenty of covers, such as plants, rocks, and caves. Live plants can provide a source of oxygen and help maintain water quality while providing the shrimp with a place to hide. Rocks, caves, and other decorations can also be added to provide additional hiding places and to create an attractive aquarium environment.

B. Cherry shrimp water parameters and maintenance

Proper water conditions are essential for cherry shrimp living in an aquarium. The temperature, pH, hardness, and ammonia levels should all be carefully monitored and maintained.

Temperature: Ideal water temperature for cherry shrimp falls between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 78°F). It is important to regularly check the temperature and maintain a stable environment to avoid stressing the shrimp.

Cherry Shrimp pH: A pH range of 7.0 to 8.5 is suitable for cherry shrimp. Maintaining the correct pH level is important as deviations can cause stress and disease. Regular testing with a high-quality kit is recommended.

Hardness: Optimal hardness for cherry shrimp is 7-14 dGH, which aligns with the recommended pH range. Maintaining the proper hardness level is important to prevent stress and disease. Regular testing is advised.

Ammonia: Ammonia is a toxic waste that can accumulate in the aquarium, so keeping the levels low is essential. A high-quality filtration system and regular water changes can help maintain a healthy environment.

C. Feeding and diet

Cherry shrimp are detritivores that feed on decaying organic matter in their environment. They mainly eat algae and biofilm that grows on stuff. It’s absolutely essential to cherry shrimp care that you feed them properly.

In an aquarium setting, feeding cherry shrimp a varied diet of sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and frozen or freeze-dried foods is recommended. Overfeeding should be avoided as it can lead to water pollution from decomposing organic matter. To allow for foraging, live plants, and cover can be added.

A healthy diet and environment are essential to maintain the well-being of red cherry shrimp in the tank.

D. Breeding and raising baby shrimp

Breeding cherry shrimp in an aquarium is a relatively easy process, but proper conditions must be maintained to ensure the survival of the young. A mature and healthy colony of cherry shrimp can produce thousands of babies, known as shrimplets, in a single breeding cycle.

To encourage breeding, it is crucial to maintain optimal water conditions, including temperature, pH, hardness, and cleanliness. Additionally, providing hiding places, such as live plants and PVC pipes, can help create a suitable environment for mating.

Once the eggs have been laid and fertilized by a male, they are stored by the female in a section we would think of as her abdomen, but this is her tail. The eggs are held in place, rotated, and cleaned by the pleopods for 3-4 weeks. When they hatch, the shrimp are fully formed versions of the adults, and they will then grow into mature shrimp over a few months, provided they are given the right conditions.

These conditions include a clean and stable environment, proper water parameters, and a suitable diet.

During this time, the young shrimp will molt very often, almost every day in the beginning.

Once they reach around 1cm in size, they are safe to move to grow-out tanks, it’s okay to keep all the shrimp in one tank, but you must be made aware young shrimp can stay very small if there are a lot of them.

This is thought to be caused by stress due to other shrimp aggression and a lack of feeding area.

The stress hormone cortisol is also released in animals and can stunt their growth. Cortisol is a hormone produced in response to stress and is known to affect the growth and metabolism of all animals and their immune system and behavior. When shrimp are subjected to stress, such as poor water quality or overcrowding, their cortisol levels can increase, leading to stunted growth and other physiological changes.

It is, therefore, essential to maintain optimal water conditions and provide a suitable environment for shrimp to minimize stress and promote healthy growth.

E. Health issues and treatment

Like all living organisms, cherry shrimp can be susceptible to various health issues, including disease and parasites. To maintain the health of a red cherry shrimp colony, it is important to keep the tank clean, provide proper nutrition, and maintain optimal water conditions.

If red cherry shrimps become ill, several treatments are available, including antibiotics, antiparasitics, and other medications. However, these treatments should only be used as a last resort after seeking advice from a veterinarian or experienced aquarist.

Regular water changes are the best way to ensure your shrimp tanks are healthy. In my cherry shrimp tanks, I do a 30% water change once a week; this allows me to feed my tanks heavily, resulting in thousands of shrimp.

F. how many cherry shrimp per gallon

The recommended number of cherry shrimp per gallon or liter of water can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the size of the tank or aquarium, the filtration and water quality, and the specific needs of the shrimp. However, a general rule of thumb is to have around 10-12 cherry shrimp per gallon of water or 2-3 cherry shrimp per liter of water.

This recommended number can also be adjusted based on the other inhabitants of the aquarium. If the aquarium contains other fish or invertebrates that may prey on the cherry shrimp, it is recommended to keep fewer cherry shrimp to ensure their safety. Conversely, if the aquarium is heavily planted and well-maintained with appropriate levels of nutrients, a higher number of cherry shrimp can be kept.

It’s also important to note that the size of the aquarium or tank can impact the recommended number of cherry shrimp. In a larger aquarium, a higher number of cherry shrimp can be kept without compromising their health and well-being. On the other hand, in a smaller tank or aquarium, a lower number of cherry shrimp should be kept to ensure they have adequate space and resources.

In addition, it’s important to consider the overall quality of the water in the aquarium. Cherry shrimp are sensitive to changes in water parameters, and poor water quality can impact their health and survival. Ensuring that the aquarium is well-maintained with regular water changes and appropriate levels of filtration can support the health and well-being of the cherry shrimp.

IV. Cherry Shrimp Tank Mates

A. compatibility with different fish species

When it comes to compatibility with other fish species, red cherry shrimp are generally considered to be peaceful and non-aggressive tank mates. They can coexist well with small fish species, such as tetras and danios, provided they are well-fed and do not view cherry shrimp as a food source.

Cherry shrimp with betta is one of the most asked questions I get asked and the truth is every beta is different, some are super chill while others are aggressive towards shrimp and will kill them, the best thing you can do is just test the water by adding a few cherry shrimp your beta tank and observe, it would probably help if you feed the betta before hand.

However, it is essential to avoid keeping cherry shrimp with large or predatory fish, such as goldfish and cichlids, as these fish can be aggressive and may view cherry shrimp as a food source. Additionally, goldfish and cichlids tend to produce a large amount of waste, which can significantly impact the water quality in the tank and harm cherry shrimp.

To ensure the health and safety of cherry shrimp, it is essential to consider the other species present in the aquarium carefully.

I personally keep neocaridina with bristle nose plecos and endlers.

B. Compatibility with plants and other invertebrates

Cherry shrimp are known to love java moss, and they can also be kept with a variety of other aquarium plants, such as Anubias, Java Fern, and moss ball.

The presence of plants in an aquarium can provide additional food and hiding places for cherry shrimp, which can help to improve their health and well-being.

Regarding compatibility with other invertebrates, red cherry shrimp can coexist well with other species of shrimp, but for best breeding purposes, it’s best to set up individual species tanks.

Cherry shrimp also do well with freshwater snails, where they tend to feed on the snail’s poop.

However, it is essential to note that not all invertebrates are suitable tank mates for cherry shrimp. Some species, such as crayfish and Amano shrimp, can be aggressive and may view cherry shrimp as a food source. I’ve witnessed Amano shrimp eat cherry shrimp before. It is important to carefully research the compatibility of any potential tank mates before introducing them to an aquarium with cherry shrimp if you plan on keeping them in the same tank.

C. Potential issues and how to avoid them

When keeping red cherry shrimp in an aquarium, a few potential issues can arise. To ensure the health and well-being of these delicate creatures, it is vital to be aware of these potential issues and take steps to avoid them.

One potential issue is the disease. Cherry shrimp are susceptible to a variety of diseases, including bacterial and fungal infections, as well as parasites. To reduce the risk of disease, it is important to maintain good water quality, provide a balanced diet, and avoid overcrowding in the shrimp tank.

Another potential issue is stress. Stress can impact the health and well-being of cherry shrimp and can result from various factors, including poor water quality, aggressive tank mates, and inadequate food. To reduce the risk of stress, it is essential to monitor water parameters regularly, avoid overcrowding, and provide a varied diet.

Finally, it is also essential to avoid sudden changes in water parameters, such as temperature and pH, as this can cause stress and harm cherry shrimp. Gradual changes should be made over the course of several days to allow the shrimp time to adjust and minimize the risk of harm.

By following these guidelines and being vigilant about potential issues, it is possible to maintain a healthy and thriving community of red cherry shrimp in an aquarium.

V. Enhancing the Color of Cherry Red Shrimp

A. The role of diet and water parameters

Diet and water parameters play a crucial role in the health and coloration of red cherry shrimp. Underfeeding can lead to weak and colorless shrimp and difficulties with molting, which can be a source of stress and contribute to health issues.

It is important to provide a balanced and varied diet, including algae wafers, vegetables, and high-quality shrimp food, to ensure that the shrimp receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health and coloration.

In addition to diet, maintaining proper water parameters is also critical. This includes ensuring that the water temperature is between 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C), the pH is between 7 to 8.5, and the hardness (GH) is within this range. Rapid and large changes in water parameters can stress the shrimp and lead to health problems.

It is essential to monitor and maintain these parameters consistently to avoid potential issues and support the red cherry shrimp’s overall health and well-being. By providing a balanced diet and maintaining optimal water conditions, cherry red shrimp can thrive and exhibit their vibrant and striking coloration.

B. The impact of genetics

Genetics plays a significant role in the coloration and quality of red cherry shrimp. To ensure that you have the best shrimp, it is crucial to start with high-quality specimens from a reputable breeder or supplier.

By carefully selecting the best shrimp, you can improve the chances of having shrimp with vibrant and striking coloration and good health and hardiness. This, in turn, can contribute to a thriving aquarium environment.

It is important to remember that while genetics is a significant factor, diet, water parameters, and overall care also play a role in determining the coloration and health of red cherry red shrimp. By providing proper care and attention to these elements, you can support the expression of the best traits in your shrimp and enjoy their stunning appearance and vibrant coloration in your tank.

C. Enhancing the color through selective breeding

Selective breeding is one of the most effective ways to enhance the color of red cherry shrimp. This involves keeping the best specimens together and removing any shrimp that do not meet specific requirements, such as color or size. This process, known as culling, helps maintain and improve the population’s overall quality over time.

It is important to note that while culling used to involve killing the shrimp, most people now prefer to separate the cull into a tank where the shrimp can live out the rest of their lives safely.

Additionally, providing a balanced diet and maintaining optimal water conditions can contribute to red cherry shrimp’s overall health and coloration. Providing a variety of foods, such as algae, vegetables, and high-quality shrimp food, can help to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal coloration.

By following these steps and providing the proper care, it is possible to maintain and enhance the vibrant coloration of red cherry shrimp in a tank.

VI. Conclusion

Cherry Red shrimp are a fascinating and captivating species highly prized as aquarium pets. Their striking coloration and relatively easy care requirements make them a popular choice for both experienced and novice aquarists.

In this article, we have explored the taxonomy and species information, physical characteristics, life span and reproduction, care and maintenance, tank setup and requirements, water parameters and maintenance, feeding and diet, breeding and raising baby shrimp, health issues and treatment, compatibility with different fish species, compatibility with plants and other invertebrates, potential issues and how to avoid them, enhancing the color of red shrimp, and the role of diet and water parameters, and genetics in determining their coloration and health.

As with any living organism, proper care and attention are essential for health and well-being. However, with a little time and effort, it is possible to create a thriving and healthy environment for these fascinating creatures.

Whether you are a seasoned aquarist or just starting out, we hope this article has inspired you to consider keeping red shrimp in your aquarium. With their stunning coloration, ease of care, and fascinating life cycle, they are a rewarding and delightful species that can bring joy and beauty to any tank.

FAQ

Q: What are Cherry Shrimp? A: Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) are a species of freshwater shrimp that are commonly kept in aquariums. They are named for their bright red coloration, which resembles that of a cherry.

Q: What do Cherry Shrimp eat? A: Cherry Shrimp are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including algae, plant matter, and small organisms like insects and crustaceans. They can be fed commercial shrimp pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini, and frozen or live foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.

Q: What is the ideal water temperature for Cherry Shrimp? A: Cherry Shrimp prefer water temperatures between 68-78°F (20-26°C). It is important to keep the water temperature stable and avoid sudden fluctuations.

Q: What is the ideal pH range for Cherry Shrimp? A: Cherry Shrimp prefer a pH range between 6.5-8.0, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH being preferred.

Q: How often should I change the water in my Cherry Shrimp tank? A: It is recommended to change 10-20% of the water in your Cherry Shrimp tank weekly. This will help to remove excess nutrients and maintain water quality.

Q: Can I keep Cherry Shrimp with other fish or invertebrates? A: Cherry Shrimp can be kept with other peaceful fish species, but should not be kept with aggressive or carnivorous fish that may prey on them. They can also be kept with other peaceful invertebrates, like snails or small species of freshwater clams.

Q: How can I tell if my Cherry Shrimp are healthy? A: Healthy Cherry Shrimp will be active and responsive, with bright coloration and clear eyes. They should be regularly molting their exoskeleton, which is a natural process for shrimp and indicates healthy growth.

Q: How often should I feed my Cherry Shrimp? A: Cherry Shrimp should be fed small amounts of food once or twice a day. Overfeeding can lead to excess nutrients in the water and poor water quality.

Q: How can I breed Cherry Shrimp? A: Breeding Cherry Shrimp is relatively easy and can be done in a separate breeding tank. The breeding tank should have plenty of hiding places and plants for the shrimp to lay their eggs on. Once the eggs hatch, the baby shrimp (known as fry) can be fed powdered or liquid fry food, or crushed up algae wafers or shrimp pellets.