Blue Dream Shrimp - Neocaridina davidi : Complete Shrimp Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi), renowned for its stunning blue colouration, has become a favoured choice among freshwater shrimp enthusiasts due to its aesthetic appeal and ease of care and breeding. With their peaceful nature, captivating behaviour, and vibrant appearance, Blue Dream Shrimp captivate the interest of both novice and experienced aquarists, adding an element of intrigue to aquatic setups.
Actively scavenging the tank, Blue Dream Shrimp diligently consume waste materials and thrive on naturally occurring biofilm and algae, particularly in planted aquariums. As proficient cleaners, they contribute to maintaining tank cleanliness, reducing maintenance requirements.
Adaptable to a wide range of water parameters and displaying non-aggressive behaviour, Blue Dream Shrimp can coexist harmoniously with various tank companions, enhancing their versatility as aquarium inhabitants.
To ensure the well-being of Blue Dream Shrimp, it is vital to maintain clean water conditions in a well-established aquarium, as their sensitivity to ammonia can lead to rapid demise. Monitoring feeding quantities and the bioload of other tank inhabitants is crucial. Supplementing their diet with dried leaves, such as Catappa or Mulberry, is recommended, as these promote biofilm growth that the Shrimp graze upon while offering antibacterial properties.
When considering tank mates, careful selection is advised, as the small size of Blue Dream Shrimp may attract fish'sfish's attention, even in peaceful community setups. Providing ample areas of cover, such as plants, can increase the chances of survival, and it is optimal to maintain a species-only tank for optimal results.
The Blue Dream Shrimp represents a darker variation of the commonly found Blue Jelly Shrimp. Notably, their intense blue colouration distinguishes them, with only the Fantasy Blue or Blue Diamond Shrimp showcasing a deeper shade of blue. It is worth noting that individual Blue Dream Shrimp may exhibit variations in their colouration intensity.
Blue Dream Shrimp Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the sex of Blue Dream Shrimp can pose challenges until they attain sexual maturity. Female specimens can be identified by their marginally larger tails and the presence of a discernible "saddle " formation on the upper body, posterior to the head, serving as a reservoir for eggs before fertilization.
Notably, the saddle shape becomes more pronounced as female Shrimp become "berried" and carry eggs ready for fertilization. Upon reaching full maturity, males will generally exhibit a more diminutive size relative to their female counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Neocaridina davidi |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Malacostraca |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Family | Atyidae |
| Genus | Neocaridina |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 4 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 10+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Livebearer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 3 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| KH | 4 - 8 |
| TDS | 120 - 250 |
| ℉ | 66-73 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 19 - 23 |
Natural Habitat
Blue Dream Shrimp, a result of selective breeding from Red Cherry Shrimp, do not possess a distinct natural habitat as they are a product of intentional human intervention. Their existence originates from the deliberate breeding of Blue Velvet Shrimp in order to achieve a visually striking, intensified blue hue. This meticulous breeding process aimed to attain the most vibrant blue colouration attainable within the species.
Breeding
The breeding behaviour of Blue Dream Shrimp is characterized by relative simplicity, rendering them highly sought after among freshwater shrimp enthusiasts. These Shrimp exhibit a strong propensity for breeding when provided with optimal water conditions and an ample food supply.
Upon reaching maturity and in the presence of both males and females, Blue Dream Shrimp typically engage in natural and frequent breeding. Acquiring a sufficient number of 8 to 10 shrimp is advisable to ensure an adequate ratio of male-female pairs, promoting successful breeding outcomes.
Female Shrimp undergo moulting and release pheromones that elicit an enthusiastic response from male Shrimp when they have eggs available for fertilization. Following successful breeding, the eggs undergo a gestation period of approximately two weeks, eventually hatching into minuscule replicas of the adult shrimp.
As they emerge, the shrimplets rely on the same food sources as their parents and undergo frequent moulting during their early life stages. Retaining the moulted shells within the tank is beneficial, as the shrimp fry consumes them to acquire additional minerals such as calcium, which supports their growth.
It is important to note that maintaining Blue Dream Shrimp alongside other fish species or potentially aggressive shrimp species may impact their ability to reproduce. If the Shrimp feel threatened or lack suitable hiding places in the tank, their breeding behaviour may be inhibited.
Diet & Feeding
The diet of Blue Dream Shrimp encompasses a range of food sources, making them relatively undemanding to feed in a freshwater aquarium setting.
These shrimp are primarily detritivores and omnivores, displaying a voracious appetite for organic matter, algae, and biofilm. They actively scavenge the tank, consuming decaying plant matter, uneaten fish food, and other debris.
Supplementing their diet with specialized shrimp pellets, high-quality flake food, and blanched vegetables such as spinach or zucchini is recommended to provide a well-rounded nutritional intake. Additionally, these Shrimp derive essential nutrients from naturally occurring biofilm and algae present in the tank. Ensuring a varied and balanced diet, along with regular feeding, promotes their overall health, vibrant colouration, and successful breeding.
