Cherry Shrimp Care Guide

Cherry shrimp require a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding places. A minimum tank size of 5 gallons is recommended, but larger tanks provide better water quality and reduced stress. Include dense plant growth like Java moss or Anubias, as well as rocks and driftwood for shelter and breeding sites.

Temperature should range between 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C), with a slight gradient of 1-2 degrees Fahrenheit. Cherry shrimp are extremely sensitive to copper-based medications, so avoid using any products containing copper in your aquarium. Maintain soft, slightly acidic water parameters: pH 6.5-7.5, KH 0-3 dKH, and hardness below 10 dGH.

Feeding is straightforward—provide high-quality commercial shrimp food or frozen/freeze-dried foods like spirulina, brine shrimp, or bloodworms. Aim for 1-2 pinches of food per gallon daily. Supplement with algae wafers or vegetable-based pellets to ensure a balanced diet.

Cherry shrimp are naturally skittish and should be handled minimally. Use a soft-mesh net to catch them gently, avoiding sudden movements that can cause stress. Handle no more than 5-10 minutes at a time, keeping your hands submerged in water to prevent ammonia buildup from skin oils.

Common health issues include shell disease (bacterial infections), fungal growths on the body, and parasites like Oodinium or Amyloodinium. Regular water changes of 10-20% weekly help maintain healthy conditions. Monitor for signs of stress like rapid breathing, lethargy, or missing antennae.

Cherry shrimp are prolific breeders, producing multiple generations per year. Female shrimp can carry up to 15 eggs at a time, which hatch after 2-4 weeks depending on temperature and water quality. Provide plenty of hiding places for new mothers to protect their young from predators.