Cherry shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) are a popular choice for freshwater aquariums due to their vibrant color, peaceful nature, and algae-eating habits. Originating from Taiwan, China, and Vietnam, these small invertebrates add a splash of red to any tank while contributing to its cleanliness. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about cherry shrimp diet and care, ensuring a thriving and vibrant community in your aquarium.
Understanding Cherry Shrimp
Red cherry shrimp (RCS) have become increasingly popular since their introduction into the aquarium trade back in 2003. They are a red color variation or mutation of the dwarf shrimp Neocaridina denticulata sinensis. The beautiful red variety of this shrimp was developed and bred in Taiwan and does not occur naturally in the wild. Adults grow to approximately 1 to 1¼ inches long, with the females being larger than the males. Female RCS are much brighter red than their male counterparts, especially when sexually mature. The males, in addition to being slightly smaller with a slimmer mid section, are a more clear color with red striping. Their life expectancy is approximately two years.
Optimal Water Conditions
While easy to care for, as with most shrimp they can be sensitive, and excellent water quality is a must. They can adapt to a wide range in both temperature and pH. For temperature, keep your RCS between 70° and 80°F, with best results in the mid 70s. Regarding pH, they have been successfully maintained in a pH from 6.5 to 8.0, although they do better in a neutral to slightly higher pH. They will not tolerate ammonia or nitrite in their water. Regular maintenance, including testing and water changes, is necessary. Perform a weekly 10-percent water change, being careful to not siphon up any shrimp in the process.
The Omnivorous Diet of Cherry Shrimp
Red Cherry Shrimp are considered omnivores. In their natural habitat, cherry shrimp primarily consume biofilm, algae, and decaying plant matter, making them excellent tank cleaners. In the aquarium, their diet can include algae, blanched vegetables, and prepared aquarium foods.
Natural Algae Consumption
Algae is a natural food source for Red Cherry Shrimp. They will eat many types of algae found in the aquarium, and often times, the algae found naturally in aquariums is enough food to support a moderate Cherry Red Shrimp population. RCS seem to eat more forms of algae than other shrimp, even the dreaded hair algae. In a well-planted tank they will almost always have something to eat.
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Supplemental Feeding
As natural scavengers, cherry shrimp do not require constant feeding. It is generally recommended to feed your cherry shrimp once per day, providing only enough food that they can consume within 2-3 hours. Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and negatively impact the health of your shrimp. While modest populations of Red Cherry Shrimp will often not need supplemental feedings, there are many options when it becomes necessary.
Blanched Vegetables
Blanched vegetables make an excellent food for Red Cherry Shrimp. Vegetables such as Zucchini, Lettuce, Spinach, and Carrots are commonly used. When preparing these vegetables, place them in boiling water until they are soft, 2-3 minutes for leafy vegetables and longer for carrots and zucchini. You can also occasionally offer veggies like spinach or zucchini, making sure to blanch them to make it easier for them to eat. Make sure to remove any uneaten food so they don’t rot and adversely affect your water quality.
Prepared Aquarium Foods
Foods that are prepared for aquarium animals are often a great supplement to algae for Red Cherry Shrimp. There are a few foods that are manufactured specifically for invertebrates, such as Hikari Crab Cuisine, and these foods are readily accepted. Any sinking pellet type food works well as a food source. Also, any common flake fish food that falls to the bottom will be eaten and for this reason, many aquarist use Red Cherry Shrimp as a clean up crew. Be sure to read the ingredients label carefully, any food containing copper should not be used.
There is a variety of high-quality shrimp food available on the market, specifically designed for freshwater aquarium shrimp like cherry shrimp and other neocaridina shrimp species. These foods provide essential nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals that support cherry shrimp growth and reproduction. When selecting a commercial shrimp food, look for options that cater to the unique dietary needs of cherry shrimp.
Natural Food Sources
In addition to commercial shrimp food, consider offering your cherry shrimp natural food sources that mimic their diet in the wild. Options include boiled leaves (like Indian almond leaves or oak leaves), and frozen or live foods (such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms).
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Feeding Guidelines
- Frequency: Feed cherry shrimp once a day, providing only enough food they can consume in 2-3 hours.
- Variety: Offer a mix of commercial shrimp food, blanched vegetables, and natural food sources for a balanced diet.
- Observation: Monitor your shrimp's eating habits and adjust the amount of food accordingly.
- Removal: Remove any uneaten food to prevent water quality issues.
Tank Setup and Environment
RCS do not require large tanks. A standard 10-gallon tank or one of the very popular nano tanks will work well, although larger is always better in order to maintain a more stable environment.
Filtration
As far as filtration goes, almost any kind of filter will work. However keep in mind their small size. Baby shrimp-and small adults for that matter-could easily be sucked into the intake of a power or canister filter. It is recommended placing a piece of fine mesh, sponge, or even an old pantyhose over the intake to protect your shrimp.
Plants
RCS make a great addition to a planted tank; in fact, they seem to thrive in such an environment. While eating almost every kind of algae in the tank, they will do no damage to your live plants. Their bright red colors will really stand out against a backdrop of different greens in a planted tank. In this type of tank your shrimp will be very active, constantly foraging for food.
Substrate and Decor
Provide a substrate that supports plant growth and offer hiding places such as driftwood, rocks, and caves to reduce stress and provide security for the shrimp.
Tankmates
When choosing tankmates for your RCS, a little common sense is in order. While these shrimp are peaceful and would never harm your fish, there is no guarantee that the fish won’t harm them. Due to the tiny size of these shrimp, select carefully any fish you place in the same tank. Small tetras, rasboras, and other non-aggressive small fish should be fine. While these shrimp are incredibly fast, keep in mind that if they can fit into the mouths of your fish then those fish are not good tankmates-you would just be providing your fish with expensive little snacks. If you have any interest in breeding your shrimp, then an RCS-dedicated tank is the best way to go. The tiny baby shrimp will prove to be too much of a temptation for even the smallest of fish.
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Breeding Cherry Shrimp
If you provide the correct water conditions and a well-balanced diet, breeding your RCS is really just a matter of letting nature take its course. Purchasing between 10 and 20 shrimp from different sources will ensure a good breeding colony with a strong gene pool. RCS reach sexual maturity between two and three months of age. At this time you will notice the females developing a deeper red color. Look closely at your females; you will begin to see them carry approximately 10 to 30 eggs that appear yellow in color. They will carry these eggs between three and five weeks. Unlike some other species of shrimp, with RCS there is no intermediate plankton stage. The eggs will hatch into miniature versions of the adults, and the shrimplets will eat the same diet as the adults. There is no cannibalism with the parents eating the babies. As long as they can’t be sucked into your filter and there are no fish to eat them, you will have a growing population with almost no effort on your part. In a community planted tank with fish, a few of the shrimplets will survive, being able to hide until they are big enough to not be in any danger. However, it is best to have a species tank in order to raise the most shrimp.
Potential Problems and Solutions
Food Competition
When feeding your cherry shrimp, it's essential to be mindful of potential food competition within the tank. Other tank inhabitants, such as fish, may consume the shrimp food before your cherry shrimp have the chance to eat. In these cases, consider using a feeding dish or other methods to ensure your cherry shrimp receive the necessary nutrients.
Harmful Ingredients
Be cautious about introducing new foods to your shrimp freshwater community, as some ingredients may be harmful to cherry shrimp or other aquarium inhabitants.
Sensitivity to Chemicals
RCS can also be very sensitive to the use of chemicals. You should not use any fish medications in your shrimp tank. This is especially true with copper, which is lethal to invertebrates. RCS are also sensitive to chlorine and chloramines; make sure you use a quality dechlorinator if using tap water. Plant fertilizers can be used carefully, without overdosing.
Molting Issues
If you find what appears to be shrimp skeletons in your tank do not be alarmed. Your shrimp aren’t dead, they have just molted. As your shrimp grow they will regularly shed their outer shell. I have observed my shrimp eating these shells.
CO2 Levels
If you are using CO2 in your planted tank be careful that your pH does not drop too low. Regular testing will help to prevent any potential problems.
Monitoring Shrimp Health
Regularly monitoring the health and well-being of your cherry shrimp is crucial for their long-term success. Observe their behavior, coloration, and activity levels to identify any potential health concerns or changes in their environment. Remember to periodically check for any changes in your cherry shrimp's behavior or appearance, as these can be indicators of their overall health and well-being. The red color of your shrimp is directly related to environment, stress level, sexual maturity, and diet. By offering a well-balanced and varied diet you will help to ensure your shrimp show their best.
Purchasing Cherry Shrimp
RCS are becoming increasingly available at pet stores. You can also purchase them online from many different sources. Look for younger, small shrimp, as they ship much better than older ones. They may not have great color at this stage, but be patient and they will color up for you soon enough.