Neocaridina shrimp are one of the most popular choices for freshwater aquariums. Hardy, colourful, and fascinating to watch, they’re perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep Neocaridina shrimp happy and healthy.
Why Choose Neocaridina Shrimp?
- Wide range of colours: red, blue, yellow, black, orange, and more.
- Hardy and adaptable, perfect for beginners.
- Peaceful tank mates that help clean algae.
- Easy to breed in the right conditions.
Ideal Tank Setup
- Tank size: 20 litres or larger recommended.
- Filtration: Sponge filters are ideal — gentle and shrimp-safe.
- Substrate: Inert gravel or sand works well; add mosses and plants for grazing.
- Decor: Shrimp love hiding places like wood, rocks, and moss.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 20–25°C
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- GH/KH: Moderate hardness (6–8 GH, 2–6 KH)
- TDS: 150–250 ppm
(Stable water is more important than chasing exact numbers.)
Feeding Neocaridina Shrimp
- Algae and biofilm are their natural diet.
- Supplement with shrimp-specific foods, blanched vegetables (like spinach or zucchini), and occasional protein treats.
- Feed small amounts 3–4 times a week — remove uneaten food to avoid water issues.
Breeding Neocaridina Shrimp
- Neocaridina breed readily in stable aquariums.
- Females carry eggs under their tail for 3–4 weeks before baby shrimp hatch.
- Provide plenty of plants and moss for the young to hide and graze.
- Once established, colonies can grow quickly!
Common Questions
Can I keep them with fish?
Yes — small peaceful fish like rasboras or endlers are fine. Avoid large or aggressive fish that may eat shrimp.
How many should I start with?
10–20 shrimp is ideal to start a healthy breeding colony.
Do I need a heater?
In most UK homes, a heater helps keep the tank stable, especially in winter.
Ready to Start Your Own Shrimp Colony?
At H&K Aquatics, we supply healthy, UK-bred Neocaridina shrimp in a variety of colours. Whether you’re new to the hobby or expanding your collection, you’ll find the perfect shrimp in our shop.

Photo by Holly @ H&K Aquatics
Shrimp Identified - Pearl Blue Shrimp
Browse our shrimp to get your aquarium started now!