Fire Red Shrimp (Neocaridina Davidi)

Freshwater Fire Red Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)

This is a selectively bred variety of the common Cherry Shrimp. It is one of the most popular freshwater dwarf shrimp in the aquarium hobby due to its vibrant color and ease of care .

Origin & Background

• Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi (previously classified as Neocaridina heteropoda) .

• Origin: This specific variety was developed through selective breeding in Taiwan and Japan, with the aim of achieving a deep, solid red coloration that covers the entire body, including the legs .

Appearance

• Size: Small, typically growing to about 1 to 1.6 inches (2.5–4 cm). Females are usually larger and more intensely colored than males .

• Color: A "true" Fire Red is distinguished from lower grades (like Cherry or Sakura) by having a solid, opaque red shell with no transparent patches. The legs are also completely red .

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum of 5 gallons .

• Water Parameters: They are very adaptable, but thrive in temperatures between 64-84°F (18-29°C) and a pH of 6.0-8.0. Stable water conditions are more critical than exact numbers .

• Setup: A planted tank with mosses and hardscape (like Cholla wood or Indian Almond leaves) is ideal. This provides grazing surfaces for biofilm, which is their primary food source .

Care Level

• Difficulty: Very easy. They are excellent for beginners .

• Diet: Omnivores. They primarily eat algae and biofilm. In an aquarium, they should be fed high-quality shrimp food, blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach), and will also benefit from eating their own molted exoskeleton for the minerals .

• Behavior: Peaceful and social. They do best in groups. While they can be kept with small, non-aggressive fish, they breed best in a species-only tank where they feel safe and exhibit curious, active behavior .

Breeding

• Fire Red shrimp are prolific breeders. As long as the tank is stable and there is a mix of males and females, they will breed readily. Females carry the eggs under their abdomen for about 20-30 days before tiny, fully-formed shrimplets hatch .