Can I keep Neocaridina with Caridina shrimp?

Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp should not be kept in the same tank as they require completely different water parameters. The only exception to this rule is Amano shrimp. Amano shrimp are a Caridina species but can be acclimated to both low pH and high pH environments.

Incompatibility in the Same Tank

Mixing Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp in the same tank can lead to problems because they have conflicting water parameter requirements. We like to use the phrase “one thrives, while the other just survives.” If kept together, one species can thrive while the other struggles to survive. For example, Neocaridina shrimp might not do well in soft, acidic water favored by Caridina shrimp. We want all shrimp to thrive, not just survive so that’s why we don’t recommend keeping them together.

Different Water Parameters

 Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp come from different natural habitats, and thus, they have evolved to thrive in specific water conditions. Neocaridina shrimp, like Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi), prefer harder water with a slightly alkaline pH (around7.0 to 7.6). On the other hand, Caridina shrimp, such as Crystal Red Shrimp (Caridina cantonensis), typically require softer water with a lower pH (often below 7.0 around6.6 to 6.9). It’s also important to note that substrate can affect pH as well, we don’t recommend using shrimp soil for neos as it often keeps the water too soft for their liking but shrimp soil like Brightwell’s Shrimp Soilis beneficial for caridina species.

The Exception

Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata): Amano shrimp are often considered an exception to the rule of not mixing Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp. Despite being a Caridina species, Amano shrimp are more adaptable to a wider range of water parameters compared to many other Caridina shrimp. They can tolerate both lower and higher pH levels, as well as a broader range of hardness. However, it's essential to note that while Amano shrimp may tolerate a broader range of conditions, they still have preferences and thrive best within certain parameters.

In summary, Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp have different water parameter requirements and are typically not compatible in the same tank. Remember that often one thrives while the other just survives, but we should want all of our shrimp to thrive.