Shrimp care guide
Neocaridina davidi - Care guide
Neocaridina davidi are hardy, colourful dwarf shrimp that adapt well to a wide range of conditions when stability is maintained.
Optimal water parameters
Use these as a guide. Stable water is far more important than chasing perfect numbers.
Temperature
22–24 °C
Keep temperature stable and avoid sudden shifts.
pH
6.5–8.0
Neutral to slightly alkaline water works well.
GH
6–10 dGH
Minerals are important for healthy molts.
KH
2–8 dKH
Helps keep pH stable.
TDS
200–250 PPM
Avoid large jumps during water changes.
Water source
Conditioned tap water
Use a quality dechlorinator for chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals.
Stability is key: if your shrimp are healthy and active, avoid unnecessary changes. Rapid swings in parameters are one of the most common causes of stress and molting issues.
Aquarium setup
A minimum of 20L is recommended, while 50L or more offers better stability. Sponge filters are ideal, and mosses, wood, and leaf litter provide a natural grazing area and shelter.
Before introducing any shrimp, allow the aquarium to run for at least 2–3 weeks so beneficial bacteria can establish and create a stable biological environment.
Bacterial supplements such as
Lubao bags
and
Dead Shrimp Powder (DSP)
can help accelerate this process by promoting biofilm growth and improving overall water quality, creating a healthier environment for shrimp.
Maintenance
Perform small, regular water changes of around 10–20% every 2 weeks in shrimp-only systems. Community tanks may require more frequent changes depending on bio-load.
Feeding
Feed 2–3 times per week in species-only tanks. Use complete shrimp food and remove leftovers after 2–3 hours to prevent water quality issues.
Breeding
Given stable conditions and both sexes, Neocaridina breed readily. Females carry eggs for about 28–35 days before fully formed shrimplets hatch.
Recommended products
Tank examples
Common questions
Can shrimp be kept with fish?
Yes, but choose carefully. Nano fish are generally a better match than larger predatory species. Snails and peaceful bottom-dwellers are often suitable companions. However, even shrimp-friendly fish are never truly shrimp-safe, regardless of size or compatibility; fish may opportunistically prey on shrimplets, especially shortly after hatching or during vulnerable molting periods. Providing dense plants, moss, and hiding spaces greatly improves shrimplet survival rates.
Can Neocaridina be kept in tap water?
Yes. They are hardy and can usually thrive in conditioned tap water as long as the source is stable and properly treated with a quality dechlorinator.
How often should I feed?
Usually 2–3 times per week in shrimp-only tanks. As colonies grow, natural grazing surfaces and supplemental biofilm support become increasingly beneficial. Larger colonies require greater food availability, and daily feeding is often necessary to maintain proper nutrition, support molting, and sustain consistent breeding activity.
How often should I change the water?
In shrimp-only tanks, bi-weekly changes often work well. In community tanks, weekly changes of around 20–30% are commonly needed depending on stocking and waste load.
