Red Cherry Shrimp

Introduction Common Names: Red Cherry Shrimp, Cherry Shrimp Natural Habitat: Native to freshwater streams and rivers of Taiwan. They inhabit areas with abundant vegetation, leaf litter, and slow-moving waters that provide plenty of hiding spots and biofilm for grazing. Physical Characteristics Appearance: Bright red coloration, with females displaying deeper hues compared to males. Their semi-transparent bodies with vibrant red markings make them a striking addition to aquariums. Size: Typically grows to about 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) in length. Lifespan: Average lifespan of 1-2 years in captivity under optimal conditions. Habitat Requirements Tank Size: Minimum of 5 gallons for a small group; larger tanks (10+ gallons) are better for colonies. Water Conditions: Temperature: 68-78°F (20-26°C). pH: 6.5-7.5. Hardness: 6-12 dGH. Aquascaping: Include live plants such as Java Moss, Anubias, and floating plants. Smooth substrate and plenty of hiding spots (e.g., driftwood, rocks, or shrimp tubes) are ideal. Diet Primary Diet: Omnivorous; feeds on biofilm, algae, and detritus in their natural habitat. Supplemental Feeding: Offer high-quality shrimp pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and occasional protein sources like daphnia or bloodworms. Feeding Frequency: Feed 1-2 times daily in small amounts to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality. Compatibility Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive; ideal for community tanks with similarly calm species. Suitable Tank Mates: Small, non-predatory fish like neon tetras, ember tetras, rasboras, and other dwarf shrimp species. Snails (e.g., Nerite or Mystery Snails) also make good companions. Incompatibilities: Avoid housing with larger, aggressive fish like cichlids or any species that may prey on shrimp. Care Level Difficulty: Easy; ideal for beginner aquarists who can maintain stable water parameters. Health Monitoring: Observe for signs of stress or illness, such as color fading, inactivity, or molting issues. Regular water changes (10-20% weekly) and good filtration are essential. Tank Maintenance: Maintain a clean environment with low nitrate levels to ensure the health of the shrimp. Breeding Breeding in Captivity: Prolific breeders under stable conditions. Females carry eggs under their abdomen, which hatch after 2-3 weeks into miniature versions of adults. Requirements: Stable water parameters, dense vegetation, and a biofilm-rich environment for juvenile shrimp to feed on. Economic Considerations Market Demand: Highly popular among aquarists for their vibrant color, ease of care, and suitability for nano tanks. Pricing: Affordable and widely available, often sold in groups for colony setups. Conclusion The Red Cherry Shrimp is a colorful, hardy, and low-maintenance addition to freshwater aquariums. Their peaceful temperament and scavenging behavior make them perfect for planted tanks and community setups. Whether kept in a standalone colony or as part of a diverse ecosystem, these shrimp are sure to add life and vibrancy to any aquarium.