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Cherry Shrimp
Cherry Shrimp
Origin
Taiwan
Habitat Size
20-50 Liters
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
18º-26ºC
Cost in India
₹50 - ₹100
Size
1 - 1.5 inches (Nano)
Diet
Omnivore



by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 1 Dec 2025
Cherry Shrimp Fish Guide
Cherry Shrimp (scientific name Neocaridina davidi) are small freshwater shrimp loved by aquarium keepers. They often show bright red colors (though other color forms exist) and are gentle in nature. They are popular because they are pretty, fun to watch, and not too hard to care for.
Origin of Cherry Shrimp
- These shrimp originally come from parts of eastern China and northern Taiwan.
- Over time, because of the aquarium trade, they have been introduced elsewhere, too.
- The red color form (which most people call “Cherry Shrimp”) is a color-selected variety made by breeders.
Cherry Shrimp Temperament
- Cherry Shrimp are peaceful and non-aggressive creatures.
- They like to move around slowly, graze on surfaces, and explore.
- When they molt (shed their shell), they are vulnerable and often hide until their new shell hardens.
Compatibility
Good companions include other small, peaceful creatures, such as:
- Otocinclus catfish
- Small snails
- Other dwarf shrimp
Avoid fish that are large or aggressive (ones that can eat the shrimp).
For best breeding success, many people keep Cherry Shrimp in a shrimp-only aquarium.
Cherry Shrimp Price Range
- Single Cherry Shrimp (normal grade): ₹50-₹70 per shrimp
- Imported Pair/Higher Grade: ₹350-₹400 for a pair
- Pack of 5: ₹125
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large

Cherry Shrimp Habitat Requirements
Initial Setup Cost
₹3,000 - ₹6,000
Water Temperature
18º -26ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6.5 - 7.5
Tank Type
- Cherry Shrimp live in freshwater tanks (not saltwater or brackish).
Cherry Shrimp Aquarium Size
- A colony can do well even in a 5-gallon (≈19 L) tank, though a larger tank is safer and more stable.
- Very small tanks are harder to maintain and more likely to have unstable water.
Water Conditions
- Temperature: 65–85 °F (18–29.5 °C)
- pH level: 6.2 to 8.0, but many keepers aim around 7.0 – 7.8
- Water Hardness (gH): 4–10 dGH is good
- Carbonate Hardness (kH): Moderate values (somewhere like 3–15)
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): 150–250 ppm in many cases
Essential Equipment
Aquarium tank
Water filter
Heater
Light
Substrate
Cherry Shrimp Environment Needs
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹50 - ₹ 100
- Plenty of hiding spots make them feel safe: plants (especially moss), rocks, and driftwood are great.
- Plants not only look nice but also grow biofilm, which shrimp eat.
- Use gentle filtration, such as a sponge filter or just a filter that has a sponge cover, so baby shrimp don’t suck them in.
- Lighting needs to be regular rather than too harsh so that algae and microorganisms can grow.

Cherry Shrimp Nutritional Guide
Common Health Issues
Fungal infections
Bacterial infections
Parasitic infections
Ammonia poisoning
White spot / ick
Fungus
Signs of good health
Active
Bright coloration
Good apetite
Undamaged fins
Signs of sickness
Loss of appetite
Lethargic behaviour
White film
Dull coloring
Tattered fins
Diet Type
- Cherry Shrimp are omnivores (they eat both plant matter and small bits of animal matter).
- They are also opportunistic detritivores (they eat decaying material) and graze on biofilm.
Suitable Foods
- Commercial shrimp food, such as:
- Sinking pellets
- Algae wafers
- Small flakes
- Blanched vegetables, such as:
- Zucchini
- Spinach
- Cucumber (after being cooked, a bit soft)
They also feed on algae and microorganisms growing in the tank.
Cherry Shrimp Feeding Frequency & Tips
Prerequisites for a Fish
Adequate tank space
Cleanliness
Effort & commitment
Enriching Environment

Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
Our cont
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cherry Shrimp easy to care for?
Yes, Cherry Shrimp are considered beginner-friendly due to their hardy nature and low maintenance requirements. They thrive in stable freshwater aquariums with adequate hiding places and plant cover.
What tank mates are compatible with Cherry Shrimp? What tank mates are compatible with Cherry Shrimp?
Ideal tank mates include small, peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, and small catfish species. Avoid keeping them with large, aggressive fish or species known to prey on shrimp.
Can Cherry Shrimp live with plants in the aquarium?
Yes, Cherry Shrimp appreciate live plants like Java Moss, Anubias, and Hornwort, which provide them with hiding places, grazing surfaces, and contribute to water quality. Plants also help simulate their natural habitat.

