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Cherry shrimp are one of the most beginner-friendly and colorful freshwater shrimp species, making them a favorite among aquarium hobbyists. Their vibrant red coloration, peaceful nature, and ease of care make them a great addition to planted tanks or community aquariums. Here’s how to keep your cherry shrimp healthy and thriving.
Water Parameters
Cherry shrimp are hardy, but they still need stable water conditions. They thrive in freshwater tanks with a pH between 7.0 and 7.6 and temperatures between 68°F and 72°F. Consistent water quality is key, so regular water changes and a good filtration system are essential. Since they are sensitive to high ammonia or nitrite levels, ensure the tank is cycled before introducing them.
Tank Size
Cherry shrimp can live in small tanks, but a 5-20 gallon setup is ideal, especially if you plan to have a thriving colony. They love densely planted environments with mosses, java fern, or floating plants, which provide hiding spaces and promote biofilm growth, a favorite snack for shrimp.
Substrate and Décor
A dark substrate helps show off their bright colors and encourages natural behaviors. You can also include natural decorations like driftwood and rocks, which not only offer hiding spots but also promote biofilm growth. Again, they love heavily planted tanks that offer feeding surfaces and places to hide.
In the wild, cherry shrimp are scavengers, meaning they consume a wide variety of foods. In your aquarium, they’ll do the same! Their diet should be well-rounded and can include natural biofilm, algae, plant matter, and specially formulated shrimp pellets.
Algae and Biofilm
Algae and biofilm are staples for cherry shrimp. They’ll constantly graze on these natural foods that grow on the surfaces of your tank, helping to keep things clean. You can encourage biofilm growth by adding natural decorations like driftwood or smooth rocks. We also recommend botanicals, such as Indian Almond Leaves, that will promote biofilm growth.
Specialized Shrimp Pellets and Food
There are many commercial foods designed specifically for shrimp. Shrimp pellets, algae wafers, and other prepared foods offer balanced nutrition with essential vitamins and minerals that help them thrive.
Leftover Fish Food
If you have fish in the same tank, cherry shrimp will happily scavenge any leftover flakes or pellets that fall to the bottom. However, be careful not to overfeed, as excess food can lead to poor water quality.
By offering a varied diet of biofilm, algae, vegetables, and shrimp-specific food, you’ll keep your cherry shrimp well-fed and ensure they live a long, healthy life!
As we always say, no fish is 100% shrimp safe, but there are some that we would consider shrimp compatible. When choosing tankmates, go for small, peaceful species like snails, nano fish, or other shrimp varieties. Micro Rasboras are one nano fish species that we would typically recommend keeping with shrimp if you are looking to keep a community tank. Micro Rasboras are very calm and such a small species of fish that it would be difficult for them to eat a shrimp. Aggressive fish or large species may stress or prey on your shrimp. If you want to maintain a breeding colony, it’s best to house cherry shrimp in a species-only tank, as baby shrimp can be vulnerable to predation.
One of the perks of keeping cherry shrimp is how easily they breed under the right conditions. If the tank is well-maintained and the water parameters are stable, they will reproduce frequently. Female shrimp will carry eggs under their bodies, and after about 30 days, baby shrimp will hatch. Ensure plenty of plants and hiding places for the young shrimp to thrive.
With proper care, cherry shrimp can live up to two years, adding vibrant color and life to your aquarium. By providing them with the right environment, diet, and tankmates, you'll enjoy a healthy and active shrimp colony!
