There are many different types of freshwater aquarium shrimp, but all of them share some common traits. They are all small, typically no more than an inch in length, and they are all filter-feeders, meaning they eat by straining tiny food particles from the water.
Most freshwater shrimp are peaceful and make good additions to community aquariums. However, a few species can be aggressive and should not be kept with other fish.
What Are Aquarium Shrimps
Aquarium shrimp are a type of freshwater crustacean that are kept as pets in aquaria. There are many different types of aquarium shrimp, and they vary in size, shape, and color. Some common types of aquarium shrimp include the cherry shrimp, the ghost shrimp, and the Amano shrimp.
Aquarium shrimp are generally easy to care for and are a popular choice for beginner aquarists. They require a moderate level of water maintenance and can survive in a wide range of water conditions. Aquarium shrimp are a source of food for many fish and can be used to help control algae growth in an aquarium.
Most aquarium shrimp can be purchased from pet stores or online retailers. They are typically sold in small quantities, so they are not recommended for those who plan to keep a large aquarium.
24 Popular Freshwater Shrimp Species
Below you will find descriptions of 24 types of aquarium shrimp and the best shrimp for freshwater aquariums.
1. Red Cherry Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Neocaridina Davidi
Care level: Easy
Size: 1 to 1.5 inches
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 72°F to 78°F
Suggested water pH: 7,0 to 7,8
The Red Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina heteropoda) is a small freshwater shrimp popular in aquariums. These shrimp are easy to care for and are a great addition to any tank.
The Red Cherry Shrimp is a small shrimp that typically grows to a length of 1.5 inches. They are bright red in color with a black stripe running the length of their body. These shrimp are a great addition to any tank and are very easy to care for.
Red Cherry Shrimp are an excellent choice for beginner aquarists. They are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They can thrive in both fresh and saltwater and are tolerant of a wide range of pH levels.
Red Cherry Shrimp are a great source of food for fish. They are a good source of protein and are a favorite food of many fish. They are also a great source of color for any tank.
2. Wine Red Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina cf Cantonesis
Care level: Hard
Size: 0,9 to 1,2 inches
Minimum tank size: 25 gallons
Temperature range: 68°F to 78°F
Suggested water pH: 6 to 6,8
If you are looking for an exciting and colorful addition to your aquarium, consider red wine shrimp. These tiny shrimp are a beautiful deep red color and can be a real attention-getter in your tank.
Wine red shrimp is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarium enthusiasts. They are hardy and easy to care for, and they will add color and interest to any tank. They are schooling fish, so keeping at least six of them in a tank is best.
Wine red shrimp can be fed various foods, including flake food, pellets, and frozen food. They will also scavenge for food on the bottom of the tank.
When choosing a tank for red wine shrimp, it is essential to provide plenty of hiding places. These shrimp like to hide in rocks and plants, so make sure to include plenty of both in your tank.
3. Blue Bolt Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina cf Cantonensis
Care level: Intermediate
Size: 1 to 1.5 inches
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 65°F to 85°F
Suggested water pH: 6,2 to 7,8
The Blue Bolt Shrimp is a rare and exotic shrimp that is found in the Indo-Pacific region. These shrimp are known for their bright blue coloring and striking lightning bolt-like markings. They are a popular choice for aquariums due to their vibrant colors and interesting behavior.
Blue Bolt Shrimp is a carnivorous species that feed on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. They are relatively easy shrimp to care for, but they do require a heated aquarium with plenty of hiding places.
4. Blue Velvet Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Neocaridina Davidi var
Care level: Easy
Size: 2 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 72°F to 82°F
Suggested water pH: 6,8 to 7,5
The Blue Velvet Shrimp is a type of freshwater shrimp that is found in the Amazon River. They are a dark blue color with a light blue stripe running down their back.
They can grow up to 2 inches in length and are popular aquarium fish. They are peaceful fish and are not known to be aggressive.
They are a scavenger and will eat most anything that is offered to them. They are a popular fish for those who are starting out in the aquarium hobby because they are hardy and easy to care for.
5. Black King Kong Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina cantonensis
Care level: Moderate
Size: 1-1.5 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 68°F to 78°F
Suggested water pH: 6 to 6,8
The Black King Kong Shrimp is a new and rare shrimp that was recently discovered in the wild. This shrimp is a black color with a few white spots and has a large body. It is a similar size to the Giant King Kong Shrimp and has been nicknamed the “Black King Kong”.
This shrimp is still relatively unknown and has yet to be found in the aquarium trade. It is believed that this shrimp is a new species, and further research is needed to confirm this.
6. Yellow Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Neocaridina
Care level: Easy
Size: 1,2 -2 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 65°F to 85°F
Suggested water pH: 6,2 to 8
The Yellow Shrimp is a saltwater shrimp that is found in the Indo-Pacific. It is a small shrimp, reaching only about 2 inches in length. The Yellow Shrimp is a bright yellow in color, with a green stripe along its back. It is a shy shrimp and is rarely seen in the open. It is most commonly found hiding in coral reefs.
The Yellow Shrimp is carnivorous, feeding on small fish and invertebrates. It is a popular food fish in Asia, where it is often sold in markets. It is also used in aquaculture, where it is used to help control populations of unwanted fish.
7. Pinto Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina Cantonensis Pinto Bee
Care level: Intermediate
Size: 1 to 1.5 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 62°F to 76°F
Suggested water pH: 5,8 to 7,4
The pinto shrimp is a small, saltwater shrimp that is found in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. These shrimp are typically about 1,5 inches long and have a pinkish-brown color. They are a popular food fish and are considered a delicacy in some parts of the world.
Pinto shrimp is a bottom-dwelling species that can be found in both shallow and deep water. They are typically found near coral reefs and are known to scavenge for food on the ocean floor. They are also known to form small groups for protection.
8. Blue/Red Tiger Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina cf. Cantonensis sp. ‘Blue Tiger’
Care level: Moderate
Size: 1.5-2 inches
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 65°F to 75°F
Suggested water pH: 6,0 to 7,5
Blue Tiger shrimp are a selectively bred variety of Tiger shrimp. They are blue in color and have a tiger-like striping pattern on their shells. They are a popular choice for aquariums and are available through many online retailers.
Blue Tiger shrimp are a hybrid of two shrimp species: the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) and the giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon). They are bred for their attractive blue color and tiger-like striping pattern.
Red Tiger shrimp is a species of shrimp that are found in the Indo-Pacific. They are a reddish-orange color with black stripes and are famous aquarium shrimp. They are relatively small shrimp, averaging about 2 inches in length. They are a renowned food shrimp and are also used in the aquarium trade.
9. Bee Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina Cantonensis
Care level: Intermediate to Advanced
Size: to 1 inch
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 70°F to 78°F
Suggested water pH: 6,0 to 6,8
The Bee shrimp, also known as the Amano shrimp, is a freshwater shrimp that is popular in the aquarium trade. It is one of the few species of shrimp that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, making it a popular choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Bee shrimp are available in a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, and blue.
Bee shrimp are omnivorous and will eat a wide variety of foods, including both plant and animal matter. They are scavengers and will eat uneaten food and other detritus from the bottom of the aquarium. They are also known to eat mosquito larvae, making them a popular choice for those keeping tropical fish tanks.
Bee shrimp are relatively easy to care for and can be kept in a wide range of water conditions. They do best in an aquarium with moderate to high water flow and a moderate to a high level of dissolved oxygen. They can be kept with a wide variety of fish, including both community fish and tropical fish.
10. Bamboo Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Atyopsis Moluccensis
Care level: Moderate
Size: 2 to 3 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 75°F to 81°F
Suggested water pH: 7,0 to 7,5
The bamboo shrimp is a type of shrimp that is found in Southeast Asia. It is a small shrimp, growing to only about 2-3 inches in length. It is pale pink, with a black band running down its back. The bamboo shrimp is a bottom-dweller and feeds on small invertebrates and plants.
The bamboo shrimp is a popular aquarium fish. It is hardy and easy to care for and thrives in a wide range of water conditions. It is a good choice for beginning aquarists. The bamboo shrimp is also popular in the fish food industry, where it is used to make fish food pellets.
11. Ghost Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Palaemonetes Paludosus
Care level: Easy
Size: 1.5 inch
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 65°F to 82°F
Suggested water pH: 7,0 to 8,0
Ghost shrimp are a species of small freshwater shrimp that are often used as feeder shrimp for fish. They are a pale pink color and have a translucent appearance, which is where they get their name.
Ghost shrimp are a very easy species to care for and can be kept in a small aquarium or even a bowl. They are scavengers and will eat any type of food that is offered to them, making them a great option for those who are not able to feed their fish a varied diet.
Ghost shrimp can also be used to clean an aquarium by eating the algae and other organic material that accumulates on the tank walls.
12. Crystal Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina cantonensis
Care level: Intermediate
Size: 1.2 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 71°F to 77°F
Suggested water pH: 5,8 to 7,4
Crystal shrimp is a type of shrimp that is native to the Indo-Pacific region. They are small shrimp, typically measuring only about an inch in length. They are a light pinkish color with a translucent body that allows you to see their internal organs. They are a popular aquarium shrimp and are often kept in tanks with other small fish.
Crystal shrimp are hardy shrimp and make a good choice for beginner aquarists. They are peaceful shrimp and do not generally bother other fish. They are a scavenger and will eat any type of food that is offered to them. They are omnivorous shrimp and will eat both plant and animal material.
13. Snowball Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Neocaridina cf. Zhangjiajiensis
Care level: Easy
Size: 1.25 inches
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 68°F to 72°F
Suggested water pH: 7,0 to 7,4
Snowball shrimp, also known as winter shrimp, is a type of shrimp that is found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans. These shrimp are small, averaging about 1.25 inches in length, and are a pinkish-white color.
14. Amano Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina Multidentate
Care level: Easy
Size: 2 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 70°F to 80°F
Suggested water pH: 6,0 to 7,0
The Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata) is a freshwater shrimp of the family Caridina. It is a popular aquarium shrimp and is one of the most commonly traded invertebrates. It is named after Japanese aquarist Takashi Amano.
The Amano shrimp is a small, translucent shrimp that typically grows to 2″ a length. It has a long, thin body, a pointed tail, and a pair of long antennae. It is an omnivorous scavenger and feeds on detritus, algae, and other small invertebrates.
The Amano shrimp is a popular aquarium shrimp and is one of the most commonly traded invertebrates. It is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. It is a peaceful shrimp and is often used as a cleaner shrimp in aquariums.
15. Red Rili Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Neocaridina Davidi
Care level: Easy
Size: 1 to 1.5 inches
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 65°F to 85°F
Suggested water pH: 6,2 to 8,0
The Red Rili Shrimp is a freshwater shrimp popular in the aquarium. It is a small shrimp that typically grows to a length of 1.5 inches. The Red Rili Shrimp is a bright red in color with a white stripe running down its back. It is a hardy shrimp that is easy to care for and is popular with both beginner and experienced aquarists.
The Red Rili Shrimp is a scavenger that will eat various foods, including algae and dead fish. It is a peaceful shrimp that is well-suited for community tanks. It is a good choice for both freshwater and saltwater tanks and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.
16. Vampire Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Atya Gabonensis
Care level: Intermediate
Size: Up to 6 inches
Minimum tank size: 20 gallons
Temperature range: 75°F to 84°F
Suggested water pH: 6,5 to 7,5
There are many different types of shrimp, but one of the most unique and interesting is the vampire shrimp. This shrimp gets its name from the two sharp spikes on its head that look like fangs. Vampire shrimp are a type of freshwater shrimp that can be found in North America, Europe, and Asia.
These shrimp are a dark brown or black color and can grow up to 6 inches long. They have a long, thin body and a wide, flat tail. The two spikes on their head are used for defense and can be quite sharp.
Vampire shrimp is a scavengers and will eat anything they can find, including dead animals, plant material, and other shrimp. They are a nocturnal species and spend most of the day hiding in the mud or in underwater caves.
17. Babaulti Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina cf. babaulti
Care level: Easy
Size: 1,5-2 inches
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 64,5°F to 82,5°F
Suggested water pH: 6,5 to 7,8
The Babaulti shrimp is a saltwater shrimp that is found in the Indo-Pacific. It is a small shrimp, reaching only about 2 inches in length. The Babaulti shrimp is light brown to tan in color with a white underside. It has a long, thin tail and two long antennae.
The Babaulti shrimp is a carnivorous shrimp that feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates. It is a well-adapted scavenger and predator that is able to survive in a wide range of habitats.
The Babaulti shrimp is a popular saltwater aquarium shrimp. It is hardy and easy to care for, and it does not require a lot of space. It is a good choice for beginning aquarists.
18. Indian Whisker Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Macrobrachium Lamarrei
Care level: Difficult
Size: 2 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 72°F to 82°F
Suggested water pH: 7,0 to 7,8
The Indian whisker shrimp is a small, colorful shrimp that is found in the coral reefs of the Indian Ocean. They get their name from the long, white whiskers that extend from their heads. Indian whisker shrimp are very active shrimp and are always swimming around looking for food. They are also very colorful, with a bright red body and blue antennae.
Indian whisker shrimp are a fascinating shrimp species and are a popular addition to the aquarium hobby. They are very active and colorful and are sure to add a splash of color to any tank.
19. Grass Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Palaemonetes
Care level: Easy
Size: 1.5 inches
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Temperature range: 65°F to 85°F
Suggested water pH: 6,5 to 8,0
Grass shrimp, also known as amphipods, are a type of crustacean that can be found in both salt and fresh water. They are typically small, measuring only a few inches in length, and are a translucent green color. Grass shrimp are a popular food item for both fish and birds and are also used as bait by fishermen.
Grass shrimp are a valuable part of the ecosystem, playing a role in both the food web and the nutrient cycle. They are a primary food source for fish and are also eaten by other aquatic animals, such as frogs and turtles. They are also a food source for birds, including ducks and shorebirds.
Grass shrimp are important in the nutrient cycle, as they help to break down organic matter and recycle nutrients. This helps to keep the water clean and healthy and provides a food source for other aquatic animals.
20. Babaulti Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina Babaulti
Care level: Easy
Size: 1 inch
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 64,5°F to 82,5°F
Suggested water pH: 6,5 to 7,8
The Babaulti shrimp is a small freshwater shrimp popular in the aquarium. This shrimp is bright orange with a black stripe along its back, and it grows to a maximum size of about 1,5 inches long. Babaulti shrimp are hardy, easy to care for, and ideal for beginning aquarists.
Babaulti shrimp are native to Africa and can be found in rivers and streams. In the aquarium, they prefer a warm, tropical environment and require a water temperature of at least 64,5 degrees Fahrenheit. They are a schooling species and should be kept in at least six shrimp groups.
Babaulti shrimp are scavengers and will eat most types of food. They will scavenge the bottom of the aquarium for food, but they can also be fed a variety of commercially available shrimp foods.
21. Cardinal Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina Dennerli
Care level: Intermediate
Size: 0.5 to 1 inch
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 77°F to 86°F
Suggested water pH: 7,5 to 8,5
The Cardinal shrimp is a small, brightly colored shrimp that is found in the United States. These shrimp are typically red and white in color, and they get their name from the bright red color of their heads. These shrimp are a popular food item, and they are also popular as pets.
Cardinal shrimp are small shrimp, and they typically grow to a length of just 1 inch. They are red and white in color, and they have bright red heads.
22. Chocolate Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Neocaridina Davidi
Care level: Easy
Size: 1.5 inch
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 65°F to 85°F
Suggested water pH: 6,5 to 8
Chocolate shrimp are a type of freshwater shrimp that are native to Central America and parts of South America. They are a popular aquarium fish and are also sometimes eaten by humans.
Chocolate shrimp are a dark brown color with a light brown stripe running down their back. They get their name from their chocolate-like coloration.
Chocolate shrimp are a peaceful fish and can be kept in community tanks with other small fish. They are a scavenger fish and will eat any type of food that is offered to them. They are also known to be very tolerant of changes in water conditions.
Chocolate shrimp are a popular choice for both beginning and experienced aquarium hobbyists.
23. Panda Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Caridina Cantonensis var
Care level: Intermediate/Difficult
Size: 1 to 1.5 inches
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 62°F to 76°F
Suggested water pH: 6,0 to 7,5
Panda shrimp are a type of freshwater shrimp that are common in the aquarium trade. They are named for their black and white coloring, which resembles that of a panda. Panda shrimp are a popular choice for aquariums because they are relatively easy to care for and are tolerant of a wide range of water conditions.
These shrimp are omnivorous and will eat a wide variety of foods, including algae, plants, and small invertebrates. They are also known to scavenge for food on the bottom of the tank. Panda shrimp are generally peaceful and will not bother other tank occupants, making them a good choice for community tanks.
Panda shrimp are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 1 to 1,5 inches in length. They can be purchased online or at pet stores.
24. Orange Pumpkin Shrimp
Shrimp Species: Neocaridina Heteropoda var. Orange
Care level: Easy
Size: 1.5 inches
Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
Temperature range: 65°F to 85°F
Suggested water pH: 6,2 to 7,8
Orange pumpkin shrimp are a type of freshwater shrimp that can be found in many different parts of the world. They get their name from their bright orange coloring, which makes them a standout in any tank.
Although they are small, orange pumpkin shrimp are hearty and can thrive in a variety of environments. They prefer a tank with plenty of plants and hiding places, but they can also adapt to a more barren tank if necessary.
Care Features
Freshwater aquarium shrimp can make a great addition to any freshwater tank, but proper care is essential to keeping them healthy and happy. Here are some tips on how to care for your shrimp:
- Shrimp need a tank with plenty of plants and hiding places. They like to hide among the plants and avoid direct exposure to light.
- The water temperature should be kept between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The water should be kept clean and free of toxins. A water filter is essential to keeping your shrimp healthy.
- Shrimp need a diet of both meat and plant matter. You can provide them with a diet of sinking shrimp pellets, bloodworms, and blanched vegetables.
- Make sure to keep the tank well aerated, as shrimp need plenty of oxygen to thrive.
- Do not overfeed your shrimp, as this can lead to water pollution. A small amount of food once or twice a day is all they need.
- If you have a male and female shrimp in the tank, the female will eventually produce eggs. The eggs will hatch into baby shrimp, which will need to be fed and cared for.
Caring for freshwater aquarium shrimp can be challenging, but with a little effort, you can create a healthy and happy shrimp tank.
Equipment
When setting up a tank for freshwater aquarium shrimp, there are a few pieces of equipment that are necessary to provide a healthy and comfortable environment for your new pets.
The first piece of equipment you will need is a tank. The size of the tank will depend on how many shrimp you plan to keep, but a minimum of 10 gallons is recommended.
Next, you will need a filter. A filter is important for keeping the water clean and healthy for your shrimp. Any type of filter that is suitable for a fish tank will work for a shrimp tank.
You will also need a heater. Shrimp require a warm environment, and the ideal temperature range for them is 68-78 degrees Fahrenheit. If your home is cooler than this, you will need to use a heater to keep the tank at the correct temperature.
Finally, you will need some type of substrate. The type of substrate you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the type of shrimp you are keeping. Some good options include gravel, sand, or moss.
FAQs on Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp
What Kind of Shrimp are Used in Aquariums?
In aquariums, shrimp can be freshwater or saltwater. The most common types of freshwater shrimp are the cherry shrimp and the ghost shrimp. The most common type of saltwater shrimp is the cleaner shrimp.
Are Freshwater Shrimp Easy to Keep?
Freshwater shrimp are easy to keep and make a great addition to any tank. They are a great way to add color and interest to your tank and are a fun addition for any fish lover.
Which Aquarium Shrimp are The Hardiest?
There are many different types of aquarium shrimp, and each has its own level of hardiness. Some of the hardiest aquarium shrimp include the Amano shrimp, the Cherry shrimp, and the Ghost shrimp.
Also read:
- Can Betta Live With Shrimp: Complete Review
- Best Freshwater Aquarium Filter: Review & Buying Guide
- Best Nitrate Remover for Freshwater Aquarium
Final Thoughts About Freshwater Shrimps
Overall, there are various types of freshwater aquarium shrimp, which can be found in different parts of the world. Some of the most popular types of shrimp include Ghost shrimp, Amano shrimp, and Cherry shrimp.
All freshwater aquarium shrimp are invertebrates, which means they do not have a backbone. They range in size from just a few millimeters to a couple of inches in length, and they can be either a light or dark color.
References:
- Neocaridina davidi – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neocaridina_davidi
- Worms & Annelids – https://www.britannica.com/animal/bloodworm-annelid
- Earth Sciences – https://www.britannica.com/science/gravel
