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Dwarf Blue Diamond Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
📍 Taiwan / Germany selective breeding
The Dwarf Blue Diamond Shrimp is a selectively bred variety of Neocaridina davidi prized for its striking solid blue coloration that ranges from powder blue to deep sapphire. Unlike wild-type Neocaridina, these shrimp display intense, uniform blue pigmentation across their entire body, making them highly sought after by aquarists. Their compact size and vibrant appearance make them excellent centerpiece invertebrates for planted and community tanks.
Care Guide
Diet
Dwarf Blue Diamond Shrimp are detritivores that thrive on biofilm and algae naturally present in established tanks. Supplement with high-quality shrimp pellets (Shirakura, Mosura, or similar brands), blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, cucumber), and occasional protein sources like dried seaweed. Feed small amounts 2-3 times weekly; uneaten food should be removed within 24 hours.
Behavior
These shrimp are active grazers that spend most of their time foraging along the substrate and plant surfaces for food particles and biofilm. They exhibit natural molting cycles every 4-6 weeks, during which they are vulnerable and may hide. Colony dynamics are generally peaceful, though males may compete for females during breeding season; provide ample hiding spots with plants and hardscape to reduce stress.
Breeding
Neocaridina davidi varieties like Blue Diamond are prolific breeders in standard freshwater conditions and do not require soft acidic water like Caridina species. Females become berried (egg-bearing) regularly in established tanks with good nutrition; larvae are released as fully-formed miniature shrimp (no planktonic stage). A 5-gallon tank can sustain a small breeding colony with proper care and regular water changes.
Tank Mates
Small, peaceful fish that ignore shrimp and occupy mid-water column
Algae-eating fish that share bottom habitat peacefully without predating shrimp
Tiny, non-aggressive fish that coexist well with shrimp colonies
Larger shrimp species that may compete for food but rarely harm Neocaridina
Provides grazing surface, shelter, and biofilm production for shrimp
Hardy plant that creates hiding spots and supports biofilm without being consumed
Common Diseases
Molting Failure / Incomplete Molt
Shrimp unable to fully shed exoskeleton, appearing stuck or deformed; lethargy and loss of appetite
Ensure adequate mineral content via GH (6-12 dGH); add calcium-rich supplements (Shirakura Mineral, Salty Shrimp GH+); perform 25% water changes weekly; provide soft plants and moss for assistance during molting
Bacterial Infection / Fungal Growth
White fuzzy growth on body or appendages; cloudy appearance; lethargy; refusal to eat
Increase water change frequency to 50% every 3 days; maintain pristine water quality (0 ammonia, <20 ppm nitrate); add Indian almond leaves or tannins to lower pH slightly; avoid copper-based treatments (toxic to shrimp); consider salt dips (1 tsp per gallon for 10 minutes) as last resort
Copper Toxicity
Sudden death or paralysis; erratic swimming; loss of color; gasping at water surface
Perform immediate 50% water change; check all medications, fertilizers, and tap water for copper content; remove any copper-containing decorations or equipment; use copper-free plant fertilizers and medications exclusively; Neocaridina are more tolerant than Caridina but still sensitive
Vorticella / Protozoan Infection
White cloudy coating on body; appearance of 'dust' on shrimp; lethargy; reduced feeding
Perform 50% water change and increase aeration; add Indian almond leaves or oak leaves for tannins; maintain stable water parameters; ensure adequate biofilm and food sources to boost immune system; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; consider salt bath (1 tsp per gallon, 10 minutes) if severe
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Quick Facts
- diet
- detritivore/omnivore - biofilm, algae, plant matter, commercial shrimp pellets
- lifespan
- 1-2 years
- max size
- 3.8 cm (1.5 in)
- tank size
- 5 gallons minimum
- temperament
- peaceful
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.5-8.0
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 6-12 dGH
- temperature
- 64–82°F (18–28°C)