Red Cherry Shrimp

Cherry shrimp are a variation of the red sakura shrimp, or "super red shrimp". In general they are a lighter "cherry" red than the deeper color of the sakura grade, but the same species. Though less pricey, many aquarists enjoy the bright red and subtle color variations of cherry shrimp. These exotic shrimp will breed with other Neocaridina varieties in the aquarium. The offspring colors will be unpredictable.

Cherry shrimp are delicate scavengers and are attractive inhabitants of planted tanks and small aquariums. Cichlids and aggressive larger fish will eat them, but otocinclus, most tetras, small loaches, rasboras and snails all make good tank mates.

Quick Facts

Care Guide

Tank setup: Neocaridina are hardy and ideal for beginners. Use a cycled, planted tank with moss, plants and hiding spots, and a sponge filter or a sponge over the filter intake so shrimp aren't pulled in. Keep the water stable.

Feeding: Shrimp graze on algae all day. Feed a small amount of quality shrimp food once a day and remove anything uneaten after a few hours.

Tankmates: Keep shrimp alone or with tiny, peaceful fish like small rasboras, ember tetras, otocinclus and pygmy corydoras, plus snails. Most fish will eat baby shrimp, and cichlids (even dwarf cichlids like rams and apistogrammas) and larger fish will eat adults. Different Neocaridina colors will crossbreed and lose their color over time.

Good to know: Shrimp are very sensitive to copper and many medications. Never treat a tank with shrimp, and check plant fertilizers and treatments for copper.