Blue Dream Shrimp: Care, Feeding, and Tank Setup Tips

A. Explanation of Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina)

Blue Dream Shrimp, also known as Blue Cherry Shrimp, is a popular variety of freshwater shrimp that are a type of Neocaridina. They are highly valued for their striking blue coloration, ranging from light sky blue to deep navy blue. These shrimp are relatively small in size, typically reaching a maximum length of around 1.5 inches (4 cm) when fully grown.

We think Blue Dream Shrimps originally came from Taiwan and are commonly kept as pets in aquariums worldwide. They are famous for their ease of care and breeding, making them a great choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. In addition to their attractive coloration, Blue Dream Shrimp are known for their peaceful and social behavior and are often kept in groups in aquariums.

Neocaridina is a group of freshwater shrimp known for their hardiness and adaptability to a wide range of water conditions. They are also known for their prolific breeding, with females capable of producing multiple broods of offspring each year. Due to their ease of care and wide availability, Neocaridina has become one of the most popular types of freshwater shrimp.

B. Brief history of Blue Dream Shrimp

The origins of Blue Dream Shrimp are unclear, but it is believed that they were first selectively bred in Taiwan. As with other varieties of Neocaridina, Blue Dream Shrimp were likely developed through selective breeding programs aimed at producing desirable traits such as coloration, size, and hardiness.

The Blue Dream variety of Neocaridina first gained popularity among aquarium enthusiasts in the early 2000s and has since become one of the most sought-after varieties of freshwater shrimp. The exact lineage of Blue Dream Shrimp is not well documented.

Today, Blue Dream Shrimp are widely available through aquarium stores and online retailers and are kept in aquariums worldwide. As their popularity has grown, other varieties and hybrids of blue Neocaridina shrimp have also been developed. Still, Blue Dream Shrimp remains one of the most popular and iconic blue shrimp varieties.

C. Purpose of the article

This article aims to provide a comprehensive and informative overview of Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) for aquarium enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning more about these fascinating creatures. This article will cover various topics related to Blue Dream Shrimp, including their physical characteristics, behavior, habitat, breeding, care, and maintenance, and popular variants and hybrids.

By the end of this article, readers will have a solid understanding of what Blue Dream Shrimp is, how to care for them, and what to expect if they decide to keep them in their aquariums. Additionally, readers will gain insight into the history and evolution of Blue Dream Shrimp as a popular variety of Neocaridina and learn about related varieties and hybrids that are also popular among aquarium enthusiasts.

II. General Information

A. Taxonomy and classification of Blue Dream Shrimp

Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) belong to the family Atyidae.

Neocaridina davidi was first described in the early 1900s and was initially found in Taiwan. Since then, it has been introduced to a number of other countries around the world and is now widely distributed in the aquarium trade.

There are a number of different color varieties within the Neocaridina davidi species, with Blue Dream Shrimp being one of the most popular and sought-after. Other common color varieties of Neocaridina davidi include Red Cherry Shrimp, Yellow Shrimp, and Green Jades.

Nonetheless, Blue Dream Shrimp remains one of the most popular and distinctive varieties of Neocaridina due to their striking blue coloration and ease of care.

B. Physical Characteristics of Blue Dream Shrimp

1. Size and shape

Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) are relatively small in size, typically growing to a maximum length of around 1.5 inches (4 cm) when fully grown. They have a cylindrical body shape and a distinctive curved rostrum, a pointed extension of the head. Their body is segmented and covered with a hard exoskeleton, which helps to protect them from predators and environmental stressors.

Like other varieties of Neocaridina, Blue Dream Shrimp have five pairs of legs, with the front two pairs being modified into small claws that they use for feeding and grooming. They also have two pairs of antennae, which they use to sense their environment.

Male and female Blue Dream Shrimp can be distinguished based on several physical characteristics. Males tend to be smaller and more slender than females, with longer, more pointed tails. Females are generally larger and more robust, with a broader and rounder abdominal area. Additionally, female Blue Dream Shrimp have a distinctive saddle-shaped structure in their back, which contains their ovaries and is visible through their exoskeleton.

2. Coloration and pattern

Blue Dream Shrimp are highly valued for their striking blue coloration, which ranges from light sky blue to deep navy blue. The intensity and shade of their blue color can vary depending on various factors, including genetics, diet, and water parameters.

While the body of the Blue Dream Shrimp is primarily blue, they often have contrasting clear areas on their legs and antennae. Additionally, some Blue Dream Shrimp may have small flecks on their body or tail.

One unique characteristic of Blue Dream Shrimp is that their coloration can change or fade over time. This is particularly noticeable in older or stressed individuals, which may appear less blue or even turn brown or gray. However, with proper care and a healthy environment, Blue Dream Shrimp can maintain their vibrant blue coloration for several years.

In addition to their distinctive blue coloration, some Blue Dream Shrimp may exhibit other patterns or markings on their body. For example, some individuals may have a solid blue body with no visible markings, while others may have striped. These patterns and marking variations are thought to result from genetic variation and selective breeding.

3. Reproductive behavior

Blue Dream Shrimp are known for their prolific breeding and relatively simple reproductive behavior. Like other Neocaridina varieties, Blue Dream Shrimp are sexually dimorphic, with males and females exhibiting physical differences.

To reproduce, male and female Blue Dream Shrimp will engage in a courtship ritual, during which the male will pursue the female and attempt to conceive with her. If the female is receptive, she will allow the male to approach and deposit sperm packets, which she will then use to fertilize her eggs.

Female Blue Dream Shrimp can carry their eggs inside their body for several weeks before they are ready to hatch. During this time, the eggs will develop and change color from green to dark brown or black as they near hatching.

Once the eggs are ready to hatch, the female Blue Dream Shrimp will release them into the water, where they will begin their life as tiny shrimp. These shrimp are fully independent and must fend for themselves, as adult Blue Dream Shrimp do not provide parental care.

In the right conditions, Blue Dream Shrimp can produce multiple broods of offspring each year, making them a highly prolific species. However, it is important to note that maintaining a stable population of Blue Dream Shrimp in an aquarium requires careful attention to water parameters, food availability, and other factors that can impact their reproductive success.

III. Habitat and Distribution

A. Natural range of Blue Dream Shrimp

Unlike some other species of freshwater shrimp, Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) are not found in the wild. They are a selectively bred variety of Neocaridina shrimp developed through selective breeding programs in captivity.

That being said, Blue Dream Shrimp are the same as other species of Neocaridina that are found in the wild in parts of East and Southeast Asia, including Taiwan, China, Japan, and Korea. These wild species are typically much less colorful than their selectively bred counterparts but share many of the same physical and behavioral characteristics.

Neocaridina species are typically found in slow-moving streams, rivers, and other freshwater bodies in the wild. They are omnivorous and feed on a wide variety of foods, including algae, and detritus.

B. Ideal tank conditions for Blue Dream Shrimp

1. Water parameters

Blue Dream Shrimp are known for their hardiness and ability to adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making them relatively easy to care for in an aquarium setting. However, there are still some water parameters that should be carefully monitored to ensure the health and well-being of the shrimp.

One of the most important water parameters to consider is pH. Blue Dream Shrimp prefer a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0, slightly alkaline to neutral. Water that is too acidic or alkaline can be stressful or even harmful to the shrimp and lead to health problems or a reduced lifespan.

In addition to pH, it is important to maintain stable water hardness levels. Blue Dream Shrimp prefer relatively hard water, with a general hardness (GH) level of around 6 to 8 dGH. Soft water can be stressful to the shrimp and may cause issues with molting, while extremely hard water can lead to mineral buildup and other problems.

Water temperature is another important parameter to consider. Blue Dream Shrimp prefer water that is kept within a range of 68 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 26 degrees Celsius), with a recommended temperature of around 72 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 24 degrees Celsius). Fluctuations in water temperature can be stressful to the shrimp and may lead to health problems or reduced reproductive success.

Finally, it is important to ensure that the aquarium water is free from toxins and other contaminants that may harm the shrimp. This includes ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate, which can be controlled through regular water changes, filtration, and testing. A clean and healthy environment is key to maintaining the health and vibrancy of Blue Dream Shrimp in an aquarium setting.

2. Tank setup

When setting up an aquarium for Blue Dream Shrimp, there are several factors to consider to create an environment that is comfortable and conducive to their health and well-being.

Blue Dream Shrimp are not particularly picky about substrate and can be kept on various substrates, including plain sand or gravel.

In addition to substrate, filtration is another important consideration when setting up a tank for Blue Dream Shrimp. A small powerhead and sponge combo, or a sponge filter, is usually sufficient to filtrate a tank containing Blue Dream Shrimp adequately. It is important to avoid using filters with strong water flow, as this can be stressful for the shrimp and may lead to reduced reproductive success.

Another important aspect of tank setup is cycling. To maintain a healthy and stable environment for Blue Dream Shrimp, it is important to cycle the tank properly before introducing any shrimp. This can be achieved through a combination of regular water changes, filtration, and the use of bacteria supplements to speed up the process.

Lastly, it is recommended to include a variety of live plants and decorations in the tank to provide hiding places, food sources, and enrichment for the shrimp. Popular choices include mosses such as Java Moss and other easy-to-care-for aquarium plants like Anubias or Amazon Sword. The use of driftwood, rocks and other decorations can also help to create a natural and visually appealing environment for Blue Dream Shrimp.

3. Feeding and nutrition

Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) are detritivores that feed on decaying plants and animal matter. In the wild, they rely on biofilm, which is a thin layer of microorganisms and organic material that forms on surfaces in water environments. In an aquarium setting, Blue Dream Shrimp can also feed on leftover food and debris and other foods provided by the aquarist.

One of the best foods for Blue Dream Shrimp is fresh vegetables. They particularly enjoy leafy greens like spinach and kale and soft vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and squash. These can be blanched or boiled to make them softer and easier for the shrimp to eat.

In addition to fresh vegetables, Blue Dream Shrimp can also be fed high-quality shrimp pellets, which are formulated specifically for freshwater shrimp. These pellets provide a balanced and complete diet for the shrimp and are typically made from a blend of vegetable matter, protein sources, and other nutrients.

It is important to note that overfeeding can be a problem with Blue Dream Shrimp, as it can lead to poor water quality and other health issues. Feeding only small amounts of food once or twice a day and removing any uneaten food after a few hours to prevent it from decomposing in the tank.

IV. Breeding and Reproduction

A. Life cycle of Blue Dream Shrimp

The life cycle of Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) begins when the female shrimp releases eggs into the water. These eggs are fertilized by the sperm packets deposited by the male and will develop and change color as they near hatching.

The eggs are carried inside the female’s body for several weeks until they are ready to hatch. Once the eggs hatch, the baby shrimp larvae are released into the water, where they must fend for themselves and find food.

As the Blue Dream Shrimp grow and mature, they will go through a process called molting. The shrimp will shed their exoskeleton during molting and grow a new, larger one. Molting is integral to the shrimp’s growth and development, allowing them to grow larger and stronger over time.

Blue Dream Shrimp are prolific breeders and can produce multiple broods of offspring each year. However, the success of their reproductive cycles can be influenced by various factors, including water parameters, food availability, and stress levels.

As Blue Dream Shrimp age, they may experience changes in coloration and behavior. Older individuals may exhibit less vibrant blue coloration or turn brown or gray as they age. Blue Dream Shrimp may become less active or reclusive as they age, which is a normal part of their natural life cycle.

Overall, Blue Dream Shrimp can live for several years in an aquarium setting, provided they are given proper care and a healthy environment. By maintaining stable water parameters, providing a varied and nutritious diet, and carefully monitoring their behavior and health, aquarists can help ensure that their Blue Dream Shrimp thrive and live long, healthy lives.

B. Mating and courtship behavior

Mating and courtship behavior is an important aspect of the life cycle of Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina). Like other Neocaridina varieties, Blue Dream Shrimp are sexually dimorphic, with males and females exhibiting physical differences.

To reproduce, male Blue Dream Shrimp will engage in a courtship ritual, during which they will pursue the female and attempt to catch her to mate. The male will display his fitness and health through various behaviors, including active, vigorous swimming, which we call zooming.

If the female is caught, she will allow him to deposit sperm packets, which she will then use to fertilize her eggs. The mating process can last several hours and may involve multiple male suitors competing for the female’s attention.

Once fertilized, the female will carry the eggs until they are ready to hatch. During this time, the eggs will develop and change color from green to dark brown or black as they near hatching.

Overall, the mating and courtship behavior of Blue Dream Shrimp is an important part of their natural life cycle. It can provide aquarists with a fascinating insight into the complex social and reproductive behaviors of these fascinating freshwater invertebrates.

C. Egg development and hatching

The development and hatching of eggs is an important aspect of the life cycle of Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina). After mating and fertilization, the female shrimp will carry the eggs until they are ready to hatch.

The length of time the eggs take to develop and hatch can vary depending on various factors, including water temperature, water quality, and the health of the mother shrimp.

Typically, Blue Dream Shrimp eggs take around 3-4 weeks to hatch, depending on the temperature of the water. Warmer water temperatures can accelerate development and lead to faster hatching times, while cooler water temperatures can slow down the process and lead to longer hatching times.

Once the eggs are ready to hatch, the female shrimp will release them into the water, where they will begin their life as tiny shrimp. These shrimp are fully independent and must fend for themselves, as adult Blue Dream Shrimp do not provide parental care.

As the larvae grow and develop, they undergo several molting stages, shedding their exoskeleton and growing a new, larger one. Over time, they will grow into adult Blue Dream Shrimp capable of mating and reproducing independently.

V. Care and Maintenance

A. Tank maintenance and water quality

Maintaining proper water quality is essential for the health and well-being of Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) in an aquarium setting. Regular tank maintenance, including water changes and monitoring water parameters, is important to ensure a stable and healthy environment for the shrimp.

One of the most important aspects of tank maintenance is water changes. It is generally recommended to perform regular water changes of around 20-30% of the total tank volume each week. This can help to remove excess nutrients and waste products from the water, which can accumulate over time and lead to poor water quality.

When performing water changes, it is important to use a de-chlorinator if tap water is used. This will help neutralize any chlorine or other chemicals that may be present in the water, which can harm the shrimp. If you use Seachem Safe, I have made a handy little calculator you may like here.

In addition to dechlorinating tap water, it is also recommended to age it before using it in the tank. This involves letting the water sit in a container for at least 24 hours before adding it to the tank. Aging the water can help stabilize its temperature and pH and allow any dissolved gases to escape before they are introduced into the tank.

Regular water testing is also important for maintaining water quality in a Blue Dream Shrimp aquarium. It is recommended to regularly test for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and water hardness and adjust water parameters as needed to ensure they remain within acceptable ranges for the shrimp.

Overall, maintaining proper water quality and performing regular tank maintenance is key to ensuring the health and longevity of Blue Dream Shrimp in an aquarium setting. With proper care and attention, these fascinating freshwater invertebrates can thrive and provide aquarists with many years of enjoyment.

B. Feeding and nutrition

Feeding Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) a varied and nutritious diet is important in ensuring their health and well-being in an aquarium setting. While they are detritivores and will feed on decaying plant and animal matter, they must supplement their diet with high-quality foods that provide the necessary nutrients and energy needed to thrive.

Blue Dream Shrimp can be fed a variety of commercially available shrimp pellets or algae wafers specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of freshwater shrimp. These pellets or wafers can be placed in the tank and left for the shrimp to feed at their leisure.

In addition to prepared foods, Blue Dream Shrimp enjoy various fresh vegetables. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce are popular choices, as are soft vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and squash. These vegetables can be blanched or boiled to make them softer and easier for the shrimp to eat.

Other vegetable options that Blue Dream Shrimp enjoy include algae, such as spirulina, and boiled or blanched carrots, peas, and green beans. It is important to offer various foods to ensure the shrimp get a well-rounded and balanced diet.

It is important to avoid feeding live foods to Blue Dream Shrimp, as these can introduce parasites or diseases into the tank. While they may enjoy live foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms, these should be avoided to ensure the health and safety of the shrimp.

Overall, providing a varied and nutritious diet is an important part of ensuring the health and well-being of Blue Dream Shrimp in an aquarium setting. With proper feeding and care, these fascinating freshwater invertebrates can thrive and provide aquarists with many years of enjoyment.

C. Disease prevention and treatment

Preventing disease is important to keep Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) healthy and thriving in an aquarium setting. The best way to prevent disease is to start with healthy, disease-free stock and maintain a good diet and tank maintenance routine.

When purchasing Blue Dream Shrimp, it is important to buy from reputable sources and visually inspect the shrimp for signs of disease before purchasing. Look for shrimp that are active, have good coloration, and are free of any visible abnormalities or lesions.

Once you have acquired healthy Blue Dream Shrimp, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and tank maintenance routine. This includes feeding various nutritious foods and performing regular water changes and tank cleanings to maintain good water quality and reduce the risk of disease.

In addition to preventative measures, several treatments are available for common shrimp diseases. For example, bacterial or fungal infections can be treated with medication, such as antibiotics or antifungal agents. However, it is important to consult with an experienced aquarist before treating diseases, as improper treatment can do more harm than good.

It is also important to quarantine any new shrimp before introducing them to an established tank. This can help to prevent the spread of disease and ensure that the new shrimp are healthy and disease-free before being introduced to the main tank.

Overall, preventing disease in Blue Dream Shrimp involves a combination of preventative measures, including starting with healthy stock, maintaining a healthy diet and tank maintenance routine, and practicing proper quarantine protocols. By taking these steps, aquarists can help ensure that their Blue Dream Shrimp remain healthy and disease-free for years to come.

VI. Popular Variants

Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) is just one of many popular variants of Neocaridina shrimp commonly kept in aquariums. The most well-known and popular variant of Neocaridina shrimp is the Cherry Shrimp, which has a bright red coloration and is easy to care for.

Link here if you want to read more about cherry shrimp

In addition to Cherry Shrimp and Blue Dream Shrimp, many other popular variants of Neocaridina shrimp are sought after by aquarists. Some of the most popular variations include:

1. Yellow Shrimp – This variant has a bright yellow coloration and is sometimes referred to as “lemon shrimp.”
2. Orange Shrimp – This variant has a bright orange coloration and is sometimes called “pumpkin shrimp.”
3. Green Shrimp – This variant has a bright green coloration and is sometimes called “green jade shrimp.”
4. Black Shrimp – This variant has a dark black or blue coloration and is sometimes called “black diamond shrimp.”
5. Snowball Shrimp – This variant has a white or clear coloration and is sometimes called “pearl shrimp.”

VII. Conclusion

A. Summary of key points

Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) is a famous and fascinating freshwater invertebrate that is commonly kept in aquariums. This article has provided a detailed overview of various aspects of Blue Dream Shrimp, including:

• Taxonomy and classification of Blue Dream Shrimp
• A brief history of Blue Dream Shrimp
• Purpose of the article
• Physical characteristics, including size, shape, color, and pattern
• Reproductive behavior and life cycle
• Natural range (note: these shrimp are a man-made variant)
• Water parameters, tank setup, and tank maintenance
• Feeding and nutrition, including a variety of vegetable options
• Disease prevention and treatment, including preventative measures and treatment options
• Popular variants of Neocaridina shrimp, including Cherry Shrimp, Yellow Shrimp, Orange Shrimp, Green Shrimp, Black Shrimp, and Snowball Shrimp

By understanding these key points, aquarists can provide the best care and environment for their Blue Dream Shrimp. They can enjoy the beauty and fascination of these unique and captivating freshwater invertebrates.

B. Future considerations for Blue Dream Shrimp

As the popularity of Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) continues to grow, there are several future considerations that aquarists and researchers may want to consider. These include:

1. Further research on genetics and breeding: While Blue Dream Shrimp have been successfully bred in captivity, there is still much to learn about their genetics and breeding patterns. Further research in these areas may better understand how to breed these shrimp for desired traits and characteristics.
2. Impact of water quality on health and reproduction: As we continue to learn more about the water parameters and tank maintenance needed for Blue Dream Shrimp, it will be important to consider the impact of water quality on their health and reproductive success. By identifying the ideal water conditions for these shrimp, we may be able to optimize their growth and reproductive potential.
3. Development of new color variants: As with many popular aquarium species, there may be opportunities to develop new color variants of Blue Dream Shrimp through selective breeding. By carefully selecting and breeding for desired traits, we may be able to create new and exciting color variations that aquarists demand.
4. Conservation efforts for wild shrimp populations: While Blue Dream Shrimp are a man-made variant, many other Neocaridina shrimp species are found in the wild and may be at risk due to habitat destruction, pollution, and other factors. By focusing on conservation efforts for wild shrimp populations, we may be able to help protect and preserve these fascinating creatures for generations to come.

Overall, the future of Blue Dream Shrimp and other Neocaridina shrimp is bright, with many exciting opportunities for further research, development, and conservation efforts. With continued care and attention, we can ensure that these unique and captivating freshwater invertebrates continue to thrive and provide enjoyment for aquarists worldwide.

C. Final thoughts and recommendations

In conclusion, Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina) is a fascinating and beautiful addition to any freshwater aquarium. These invertebrates are relatively easy to care for and can provide many years of enjoyment for aquarists.

To ensure the health and well-being of Blue Dream Shrimp in an aquarium setting, it is important to maintain proper water parameters, tank setup, and feeding and maintenance routines. By providing a varied and nutritious diet, performing regular water changes, and monitoring water quality, aquarists can create a stable and healthy environment for their Blue Dream Shrimp.

It is also important to take proper measures to prevent disease and to select healthy stock when purchasing Blue Dream Shrimp carefully. By starting with healthy and disease-free stock and maintaining good quarantine and maintenance practices, aquarists can help ensure the health and longevity of their Blue Dream Shrimp.

As the popularity of Blue Dream Shrimp and other Neocaridina shrimp continues to grow, there are many exciting opportunities for further research, development, and conservation efforts. By continuing to study and learn about these fascinating creatures, we can ensure that they continue to thrive and provide enjoyment for generations to come.

Overall, Blue Dream Shrimp is a beautiful addition to any freshwater aquarium. They can provide years of beauty and fascination for aquarists of all skill levels with proper care and attention.

Blue Dream FAQ Section

Q: What are Blue Dream shrimp? A: Blue Dream shrimp are a selectively bred color variant of Neocaridina davidi, a freshwater dwarf shrimp species.

Q: What do Blue Dream shrimp look like? A: Blue Dream shrimp have a bright blue coloration on their body and legs, with some specimens having darker blue stripes or patches. They typically grow to a maximum size of about 1.5 inches (4 cm).

Q: What are the water parameters that Blue Dream shrimp prefer? A: Blue Dream shrimp prefer a pH range of 6.5-7.5, and a water hardness of 6-10 dKH. They also require clean, well-oxygenated water with a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C).

Q: What do Blue Dream shrimp eat? A: Blue Dream shrimp are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including algae, biofilm, shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia.

Q: How do I care for Blue Dream shrimp? A: Blue Dream shrimp require a well-established aquarium with clean, stable water parameters. It is important to provide them with hiding places such as plants, rocks, or driftwood, and to avoid keeping them with aggressive or large tankmates. Regular water changes and careful monitoring of water parameters are also essential for their health.

Q: How can I breed Blue Dream shrimp? A: Blue Dream shrimp are known for their high breeding potential, and they will breed readily in a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters. It is important to provide them with hiding places and plenty of food, and to ensure that water parameters remain consistent.

Q: What are some common health issues with Blue Dream shrimp? A: Blue Dream shrimp are generally hardy, but they can be susceptible to diseases or parasites if water quality is not maintained. Common health issues include bacterial infections, fungal infections, and parasitic infestations. It is important to quarantine new shrimp and to treat any sick individuals promptly.

Q: Can Blue Dream shrimp be kept with other shrimp species? A: Blue Dream shrimp can be kept with other peaceful dwarf shrimp species, such as Cherry shrimp or Crystal shrimp. However, it is important to avoid mixing different color variants of Neocaridina davidi, as they may interbreed and produce offspring of unpredictable coloration.