Aquarium shrimp: care, reproduction, compatibility, photos, types, description

“Here are collected the smallest fish that get along painlessly with shrimp. — Ideal population for nano-aquariums.

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The underwater world in miniature, what could be more amazing! Fish and invertebrates of this group are tiny creatures, most of them do not grow more than 2 cm. Of course, they can be placed in a large aquarium, but it is in a small volume that it is possible to see all their beauty and grace! These peaceful fish prefer to stay in a school, feeling more confident.

Nano aquariums (aquariums from 5-10 liters) must have stable conditions: temperature +22...+25 degrees, hardness dGH 7-9, acidity pH 6.5-7.5. As well as good filtration and regular water changes. Lighting in such aquariums depends to a large extent on the presence of living plants; it is not so important for fish and invertebrates.

Care and maintenance

These crustaceans are very prolific and hardy. Even a beginner can handle keeping this type of crustacean. But it is better to have not just one individual, but a flock of 5 to 10. In such a small group, the cherries will feel more comfortable.

Favorable conditions

1. The temperature at which cherries can exist ranges from +4 to + 30 С. But at too high temperatures, metabolic processes in the shrimp’s body accelerate, and the crustaceans die very quickly. In optimal aquarium conditions, cherries live up to two years. Despite their unpretentiousness, crustaceans do not like sudden changes in temperature and other water parameters. In a stressful situation, cherries lose their bright color and reduce activity.
2. Cherry shrimp reproduce very quickly. Their numbers can increase over a short period of time. Cherries crowd out other types of crustaceans that live in the same container.
3. This type of krill is particularly sensitive to copper, which may be contained in some fish preparations.
4. If a large population of shrimp lives in a reservoir, then waste must be removed periodically. This problem can be solved with the help of plants that partially recycle this waste and a siphon for cleaning the bottom.
5. Shrimp are highly sensitive to ammonia. Its concentration can be monitored using tests, or you can choose a larger container.
6. Impurities of nitrogen and compounds of this substance are undesirable in water.

Water parameters

Among the plants that are suitable for shrimp, special attention should be paid to Java moss, Riccia floating, Lomariopsis and Cladophora globulus. At the moment when the crustacean is going through the molting period, it is especially vulnerable and defenseless

To create shelters, just place small ceramic tubes on the bottom

At the moment when the crustacean is going through the molting period, it is especially vulnerable and defenseless. To create shelters, just place small ceramic tubes on the bottom.

Feeding the shrimp

Crustaceans in natural conditions act as scavengers. Their diet consists of algae, rotted leaves, and dead fish. In an aquarium, cherries need to be fed so that they eat everything completely in 5 or 10 minutes.

Feeding is a great opportunity to get a good look at your little secretive pets.

Food for cherry tomatoes can be vegetable porridge with a small amount of additives. You can feed fish food containing animal proteins.

It is important to give the shrimp Astaxatin. It is obtained from a certain type of algae and/or yeast

This substance allows you to preserve the bright color of cherries.

For a full-fledged existence, shrimp need to add spirulina to their food. This algae contains trace elements, vitamins and protein of plant origin. All this helps strengthen the immune system and prevent a large number of diseases.

Crustaceans can be fed not only with shrimp food, but also with carrots, dandelion leaves, cucumbers, zucchini, and nettles. In this case, it is necessary to scald the food with boiling water before serving.

Particular attention should be paid to live food. Cherries are very fond of tubifex and aulophoruses.

But if crustaceans live together with fish, then this food should be given in a separate area, or placed inside the moss. Otherwise, the fish will eat the shrimp.

Before adding shrimp, any aquarium you choose must be equipped with a lid, mesh or cover glass with holes for air circulation

Shrimp very often jump out and run out of the pond. To avoid such problems, you should carefully seal all possible holes and cover the aqua with a lid.

Neighborhood of shrimp and fish

Under natural conditions, krill is food for most fish species. But in the wild, small crustaceans have the ability to use protective camouflage. In aquarium conditions, it is very difficult for a small shrimp to hide or avoid an attack.

Arranging conditions for living together

• In their natural habitat, small shrimp use all possibilities to hide - bottom topography, soil, various objects, plants. If the necessary conditions are not provided, the bright and colorful crustaceans in the aquarium will lose protection and will be constantly in danger.
• When there are fish in the aquarium that are much larger than crustaceans, the shrimp will hide, even if there were no manifestations of aggression towards them.
• Crustaceans get along very well with these types of fish, which in no way encroach on their lives. These may be Boraras brigittae rasboras. These miniature fish are so small that they cannot encroach on the lives of even young individuals. The presence of such inhabitants will greatly revitalize the aquarium.

Rasbora Brigitte is so small that it fits perfectly into nano aquariums and shrimp tanks.

• If there are fish and young krill in the same tank, then moss and other small-leaved plants should be added to the aquarium. It will serve as a refuge for young individuals until they reach a safe size.
• In order to grow shrimp from fry, it is worth keeping a separate aquarium in which there will be no shellfish, fish or adult crustaceans, since the size of shrimp can range from 1 to 3 mm . This is especially true for dwarf species.

If shrimp feel constantly threatened, they begin to lead an active lifestyle at night. As a result, the color begins to lose its brightness.

Features of predatory shrimp

It should also be taken into account that when keeping fish, krill and crayfish together, you should choose the fish first, and only then the shrimp. The filter feeder shrimp is indifferent to other inhabitants of the aquarium, and simply takes a threatening pose if a potential enemy approaches it. But the crustacean species Macrobracium rosenberghi can not only attack fish, but also eat it. Such shrimps are very aggressive and often do dirty tricks. They can easily pluck the tail or fin of a fish during sleep at night. For this reason, it is not advisable to keep such crustaceans and fish with veil-shaped fins.

06:26

MACROBRACHIUM SHRIMP FIGHTS AWAY FROM BARBS

Shrimp species Macrobracium (ehelmals, mirabile, kulsiense), Palemonetes, Amano are kept with all aquarium fish if their size does not exceed six centimeters. Crustaceans Palaemon in a hungry state are quite capable of attacking small fish. For such inhabitants of the aquarium, neighbors with sizes from 5 to 10 centimeters are selected.

What are Cherry Shrimp?

The normal size for cherries is 2-2.5 cm. Red Cherry Shrimp is an artificially bred form of the common shrimp from Taiwan to produce a bright red color. The ancestors of these shrimp were completely transparent, some had small streaks and lines on the shell. Breeders from Asia were able to collect the brightest ones from ordinary Taiwanese shrimp in order to develop a new beautiful breed. After crossing them, the Red Cherry shrimp was obtained, having a color in different shades of red, from orange-carrot to dark scarlet. The average size of such shrimp reaches two and a half centimeters, but females are slightly larger than males.

Fourth - Equipment

The most optimal aquarium volume for beginner shrimp lovers is 30 liters - such an aquarium is easy to start, it is not too big and not too small, and it is inexpensive. Over time, you can choose a larger container if you want to grow mass colonies or rare species. Now start small to gain knowledge and experience.

After you purchase an aquarium, you need to purchase an aquarium filter. You can find filters at your local pet stores.

Filters in which the filter material is a sponge are well suited for shrimp tanks. Such filters are usually inexpensive and accessible, just what a beginning hobbyist needs. Sponge filters are safe for baby shrimp and easy to clean. Filters that are not protected by sponge material should not be used: shrimp may be drawn inside and die there.

You also need a lamp, a thermometer and a water heater. If you are going to plant an aquarium with live plants, then light is a must. In addition, the presence of living plants in a shrimp tank is very desirable; for shrimp they will become both home and food, and will speed up the start of the biological cycle.

Some aquariums are sold with lids with a built-in light, but you can choose your own aquarium light. It is advisable to choose lamps or LEDs with a spectrum of “sunlight” (sun glo) or with white light, since shrimp are colored best under such lighting, and plants with such light grow faster. For a shrimp tank with live plants, the daylight hours should be at least 7 hours.

Buy a small thermometer and a heater. If the temperature is too low or too high, shrimp stop reproducing and may die. You can find out what the optimal temperature for shrimp should be by reading the descriptions of the types of shrimp. Each species has its own requirements for water parameters (hardness, pH), temperature, so read about this in advance.

The next step after purchasing the necessary equipment is purchasing gravel. Since the presence of aquarium plants for a shrimp aquarium is highly desirable, the soil must be suitable for plants. If this is ordinary neutral gravel, then it should be of a fraction of 2-5 mm, no more. Or sand, at least 1 mm.

Of course, the best option for a shrimper is nutrient-rich soils, since they can lower the pH of the water, and this in turn will help the shrimp live happily ever after. Examples of nutrient soils: Fluval Shrimp, Manado, JBL ShrimpSoil, Amazonia and others.

Aquarium soil or substrate can be purchased at a regular pet store, but if not, you can always make a purchase at an online store.

Now the water cycle must be established in the aquarium - this is extremely important. The process may take 2-4 weeks or more (for a full cycle).

Before pouring water into the aquarium, it is recommended to use water conditioners, or let the water sit for a day. Settling does not completely remove all chlorine impurities, but during this time most of the gases from the water evaporate, the pH stabilizes, and the water warms up to room temperature.

Arrangement and parameters of the aquarium

Cherry shrimp are one of the easiest shrimp to keep and breed; they easily adapt to new conditions and do not require spacious aquariums.

A capacity of 5-10 liters is enough for ten individuals, but it is preferable to choose an aquarium with a volume of 30 to 50 liters and add more shrimp into it. This is due to the fact that it is difficult to create a stable biological habitat in a small reservoir, and Cherries are sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters. In addition, the more shrimp there are, the more interesting it is to watch them.

Photos with plant numbers recommended in this layout:

1 - Hemianthus callitrichoides. 2 - Lileopsis brasiliensis. 3 - Hemianthus glomeratus. 4 - Ludwigia arcuata. 5 - Mayaca fluvatilis. 6 - Didiplis diandra. 7 - Althernanthera reineckii.

It is advisable to plant a lot of live plants in the aquarium. Long-stemmed and pinnately leafed species are suitable. Javanese and other types of mosses are desirable, as are floating plants. The aquarium is decorated with stones and driftwood. The substrate used is sand, quartz or fine basalt. The lighting needs to be bright.

Water parameters: 23-28°C, dH up to 10, pH 6.5-8.

Shrimp are able to tolerate temperature changes in the range of 15-33°C, but only for a short time. If the temperature in the aquarium remains above 30°C for several days, the cherries may die.

They need filtration with aeration, and water changes must be carried out in very small portions - no more than 10-15%.

The Cherry shrimp is not aggressive at all. Most of the time they “graze” throughout the aquarium in search of algae and other types of pasture. Cherry Shrimp get along well with any other species of aquarium shrimp that is not aggressive. When they are kept in an aquarium where there are no predators, they are very active and only hide during molting.

Active neighbors will cause constant stress and loss of brightness in the Cherries.

How to choose and buy

If the apartment already has an aquarium with underwater inhabitants, it is recommended to study the compatibility of fish with crustaceans.

On a note!

You shouldn’t buy a lot of shrimp at once; a couple of them will be enough. Before placing them in a community aquarium, it is recommended to quarantine them for several days.

You should not buy shrimp that have just been imported from a pet store. It is possible that they are sick with something and may die. It is recommended to wait a few days to make sure they are in a healthy state of mind.

Cherry breeding

The breeding process is simple. Since cherries are invertebrates, they reproduce easily without human intervention. It is enough to put males and females in one aquarium.

Shrimp differ in color, size and behavior. Females are large with a rounded abdominal line. They are much brighter than males. Males are pale, small and more active. Females that reach the age of 2-3 months develop a saddle in which they carry eggs.

Cherry shrimp reproduce easily without human intervention

After molting, the female releases pheromones into the water, thereby indicating that she is ready to mate. The males, having smelled the scent, look for a female, and then a short mating occurs. And after fertilization, they move the eggs to the saddle.

The female usually bears about 20-30 eggs for 2-3 weeks. During this period, the aquarium must be kept clean.

The eggs can be yellow or greenish in color, but as they grow they darken. Shrimp are born tiny (about 1 mm), but similar to their parents. At first, they hide among plants and feed on the same things as adults.

Due to the fact that cherry tomatoes are bred by artificial selection, if they are bred uncontrolled, their color will tend to return to natural, that is, transparent. Therefore, when cherry shrimp reproduce, only the brightest individuals mate. They also cross not brothers and sisters, but new cherries brought from other places.

How to save sick shrimp in an aquarium?

• If you notice that your shrimp are less active, it means they have health problems. They need to be moved to a separate container filled with clean and settled water. You can also take tap water and purify it with conditioner. In just a few days, the individuals will return to normal, and they can be moved to a general aquarium.
• To clean the container in which sick individuals were located, clean the soil using a siphon . Then change the water (about 1/3 of the total volume). The filter needs to be washed.

Now you know under what conditions aquarium shrimp should be kept. As you can see, there is nothing complicated. It is important to keep the container clean, as well as monitor diet and water quality.

Useful articles on the site:

• Does fish like valerian?
• How to properly care for pet fish
• Tilapia fish
• Which sea fish is the healthiest?
• Fish without bones or scales

Do cherry shrimp need quarantine?

If shrimp already live in the aquarium, then, of course, new individuals should be introduced into it after quarantine. However, the difficulty of keeping shrimp in temporary isolation is that an ordinary empty sanitary container will not suit them.

In addition, it should be taken into account that at the end of quarantine, when the cherries are transferred to a permanent aquarium, they will again be stressed, they will begin to molt, and the females will lose their eggs. Therefore, if there are no other species of shrimp in a permanent aquarium, and new specimens are purchased from a reliable seller, quarantine can sometimes be neglected.

HABITAT IN NATURE

Cherry shrimp are actually a color variation of the common neocardina, bred through selection and enhancement of bright colors. Neocardines, on the other hand, are distinguished by their inconspicuous, camouflage coloring, which is not surprising; they cannot survive with cherry blossoms in nature.

By the way, neocardines live in Taiwan, in freshwater bodies of water, and are distinguished by their rare unpretentiousness and speed in breeding. These were the first of the shrimp that began to appear in large quantities in the post-Soviet space, but gradually they gave way to cherry shrimp. At the moment, shrimp lovers have developed a whole quality classification, which is based on the size and color of the individual; elite cherry shrimp sometimes cost a lot of money.

In conclusion, I would like to say that keeping shrimp, especially in monoculture, unlike your favorite fish, is a completely different rhythm, a different aesthetic, but compatible with fish and plants, a different pleasure from observation and the joy of learning.

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Causes of death of shrimp in an aquarium

Very often, aquarists are faced with the death of shrimp. This can happen for various reasons. They will be discussed in more detail below.

Water pollution

• If chlorine and chloramine are formed in the water, the shrimp will die. Some people advise letting the water sit to allow the chlorine to dissipate.
• The peculiarity of chloramine is that it is almost impossible to remove it. Therefore, you will have to use dechlorinators. Chloramine can accumulate in water, which will soon lead to the death of crustaceans.

Presence of ammonia or nitrites

• If the amount of these substances in the aquarium is exceeded, the shrimp will die. It should be noted that they are often located at the bottom.
• This is where their waste accumulates.

Low acidity

• If you pour tap or distilled water into the container, this can cause the pH level to drop sharply. If it is below 6, the shrimp will stop being active.
• It is better to carry out tests regularly to determine the pH level. This way you will know when to raise it. Some sources contain information that increasing pH can be done using baking soda. However, this is not the best idea, since sharp jumps will provoke the death of crustaceans.
• It is better to give preference to stones (shell or crushed coral). They will raise the pH level gradually.

Keep your shrimp healthy

Cherry shrimp feeding

The cherry shrimp is omnivorous, this is a significant advantage. Still, for health it is better to diversify your diet. Various shrimp granules, live and frozen food, and lightly boiled vegetables (or doused with boiling water) are suitable. Cherries eat zoo- and phytoplankton, which forms on moss branches, as well as microalgae.

From time to time the shrimp will shed their shells as they become small. They do not need to be harvested and will be eaten over time for various nutrients.

In general, shrimp clean the aquarium and eat everything they find

This is the reason why it is very important not to overdo it with feeding. The animal is not able to sense its norm - it may die from overeating

Many aquarium owners generally adhere to the rule of not providing additional food 1-2 days a week, as this contributes to a healthy and hygienic atmosphere.

How can you determine that the right amount of feed has been given? You should pay attention to how quickly it disappears. Everything should be eaten within a couple of hours. If not, feeding was unnecessary. You can also check whether Cherry is satisfied with the food: if the whole flock arrives and we see the so-called group feeding, this is a good indicator. Individuals who are sick or who are not getting enough essential nutrients from their food will stay away.

Shrimp owners may find that when they add vegetables, such as fresh carrots, to the diet, they float and remain inaccessible. Here you can use weighting: not just throw it into the water, but immerse it, for example, using a fork.

Who do shrimp get along with?

Various aquarium inhabitants love to feast on these small crustaceans, while the shrimp themselves are peaceful, friendly and unobtrusive. In order not to endanger them, you should take the issue of choosing neighbors seriously. It is best to attach shrimp to small, non-aggressive fish - neon, guppies or zebrafish. They also feel good in the company of snails - both of them will not be attacked.

But when keeping crustaceans with barbs, angelfish, some large cichlids, loaches or even swordtails, you can expect trouble - the shrimp will have a hard time. Salvation for arthropods can be various shelters and dense vegetation; this is the only way they can avoid reprisals from determined predators.

Constancy of the environment

Despite their relative unpretentiousness, cherries are fragile creatures, and a sudden change in conditions is destructive for them. Therefore, in a shrimp tank (especially if it is small - 20-30 l) the following are unacceptable:

• massive water changes - more than 20%;
• uncontrolled supply of carbon dioxide, which can reduce acidity levels;
• simultaneous settlement of a large number of new inhabitants;
• overfeeding of hydrobionts.

Setting up a shrimp tank

Cherries are quite unpretentious in maintenance; they are content with small volumes. As an example: in my conditions, about a hundred individuals feel great, live and reproduce in a 20-liter shrimp tank. The aquarium is densely planted and there is no filter. Once a week I change 50% of the water. With such a dense population, it is pleasant to watch them - something is always happening. They feel comfortable if there are thickets of Java moss in the aquarium and an abundance of plants floating on the surface. The optimal water temperature is 20-26 degrees. Withstands a range from 15 to 30 degrees.

Cherries and seaweed

There is a lot of debate about the destruction of algae (beards, threads) by cherries. The opinions are diametrically opposed. My observations have shown that even if cherries eat algae, they do so very reluctantly. BUT! After I introduced the shrimp into the aquariums, the threadworm, which I had been constantly fighting for years, disappeared. Disappeared completely like a class! This is despite the fact that my cherries receive adequate nutrition and I don’t starve. I will make an assumption based on the observation that the algae disappeared not at all due to shrimp eating it.

For normal growth of algae, they need several conditions, including relative rest. That is, “they don’t like to be disturbed.” And the shrimp are constantly trampling on them! They are like chickens, which, if released into a garden, in a week will turn it into a compacted area, without a single blade of grass. Or the same football players will trample the football field if they don’t take care of it. Likewise, shrimp simply “trample down” algae, preventing them from growing and developing.

The other side of the coin is that many aquarists who have received my cherries claim that in their conditions they feed on algae. I do not deny.

How to create a favorable environment

If crustaceans are kept separately, an aquarium with a volume of 40 liters will be sufficient. Take up to two liters of water for one shrimp.

If krill will be kept with fish, then the volume of the tank must be increased to 100 or 150 liters. The community aquarium also provides plenty of hiding places and plants so that small crustaceans can find shelter. Large pebbles and hornwort, Java moss and cladophora are suitable for these purposes. You should not put too many plants in a container, as they take various minerals from the water that are necessary for crustaceans.

Crustaceans respond very well to water changes, so up to half the volume should be changed weekly. If after replacement the shrimp begin to rush around the aquarium, then do not panic. The replacement of water is perceived by the krill as rain; the excitement will soon subside.

Some types of crustaceans are compatible with each other. Sometimes they can interbreed and produce unexpected offspring.

An aquarium for keeping shrimp should be planted with plants and moss, even if there are no direct enemies.

Fish and shrimp can be kept in the same tank. But in order to ensure that the joint content does not end in tragedy, it is worth considering some points.

1. You should not add shrimp to the aquarium immediately after purchase. As a result, the krill will hide, and the fish will constantly reach them and try to eat them. As a result, the crustaceans will die from severe stress or become prey to other inhabitants of the aquarium. The fish will not miss the opportunity to offend the little shrimp in every possible way.
2. Shrimp will live in an aquarium with fish if the pond is not overcrowded. Overpopulation most often causes conflicts and fights.
3. Each type of animal requires certain conditions of detention. It is best to divide the tank into separate zones, and create coziness and comfort in each of them. Dividing the territory will allow creating a separate zone of influence for each species.

What to feed cherry shrimp

If they live in a common aquarium with fish, where there is soil and plants, special feeding is not needed. Shrimps pick up leftover fish food. In a separate shrimp tank, it is better to give them specialized food for shrimp and crustaceans, from which the color becomes bright and the behavior becomes active. Since in natural conditions they are not predators, but eat what they find at the bottom and among plants, they can eat decaying vegetation, dead fish, shrimp, and snails. Don't mind eating fish food. At home, they like slightly cooked vegetables, such as spinach, cucumber, zucchini, carrots and leaves. You can and should give spirulina. Overfeeding is unacceptable. Uneaten food will rot and spoil the water, which can lead to the death of the population.

Compatibility of aquarium shrimp with other fish

Aquarium shrimp get along well with small, non-aggressive fish species, such as:

• Guppy;
• Pecilia;
• Danio;
• Neons;
• Neon irises;
• Parotocinclus.

It is strictly recommended not to add large predatory fish, large Cichlids such as Maingano, Angelfish, Apistogramma, to shrimp, since these types of fish can eat shrimp and it is recommended not to add predatory Helena snails.

Breeding and reproduction

For reproduction, a female and a male are needed. You can distinguish a female from a male by external signs. Males are smaller in size and have a tapered tail. It is easy to recognize the female during the spawning period. Under the tail you can see black caviar, which shines through the belly. A female can bear about 20 babies at a time.

Shrimp cherries reproduce constantly. In order for shrimp to reproduce, you need to put a female and a male in the tank. The female's pregnancy lasts three weeks. After three weeks, small larvae appear. You can find out that labor is approaching by looking at your belly, which turns black closer to the due date. The first days after birth there is no need to feed the larvae. They eat plankton and biofilm. It is necessary to provide shelter for small cherry shrimp in the tank so that they do not become victims of other inhabitants. Within three to four days after giving birth, the female is ready to reproduce again.

Baby rili shrimp hatch ready to live on their own. At birth, the body length reaches 3 mm. From birth, cherries eat the same food as adults. Females give birth 10-20 times a year, so you won’t notice when old crustaceans die and new ones appear.

To prevent shrimp from filling the entire aquarium, it is necessary to control the reproduction process. Experts recommend buying several fish that will eat the extra shrimp. If there is not enough space in the tank for all the shrimp, they will start jumping out of the tank.

If you do not monitor reproduction, the shrimp gradually lose their brightness of color. To prevent this from happening, you need to periodically thin out the aquarium by adding fish there or removing excess cherries manually.

Unpretentious cherries are frequent inhabitants of home aquariums. They eat algae, the waste products of fish, so many people buy them to clean the aquarium. Some aquarists classify cherry shrimp as parasites, since the shrimp reproduces quickly and constantly and can fill the aquarium. Cherries are an ideal option for beginner aquarists. Beginners will learn from unpretentious shrimp how to take care of aquatic inhabitants, clean the tank and do water changes, since crustaceans do not need special conditions.

Shrimp feeding regime and diet

Shrimp are omnivores and spend most of their waking hours searching for food. They are real orderlies of the underwater world - they eat dead areas of plants, the remains of other inhabitants (if any are found), and even microscopic particles of food that have settled on the ground. In general, everything you can profit from.

The main menu of shrimp is already available in the tank; the owner only needs to feed his charges a couple of times a day. It is not recommended to do this more often. You should not give food to crustaceans on the day of a water change when they feel hungry; they are more resistant to stressful situations and other undesirable changes.

Shrimp will eat any food that is offered to them. This can be either dry daphnia or concentrated, balanced branded diets. Some manufacturers produce special menus for shrimp; they meet all the needs of these unusual creatures and are considered the best option. It is advisable to alternate food so that the inhabitants receive everything they need and their menu is varied.

Popular types

Red cherry includes several varieties that have significant differences in color. Some species have yellow, brown, orange and black colors.

Classes of red shrimp according to the color saturation of the shell:

Red Cherry

The lowest grade of red shrimp are transparent crustaceans with a certain number of red spots on the shell. They are called cherry or cherry.

The most expensive and valuable class of shrimp is called the bright fiery red cherry. The body of the crustacean is distinguished by the rich dark color of its shell. These shrimp even have red legs. Shrimps of this class do not have areas without pigment on their body.

Red Nose

Large subspecies, reaching 4 cm.

Cherry shrimp can mimic decorations. In order for the color to remain bright, it is worth choosing a dark type of soil for the aquarium. The color also depends to a large extent on the food. For a bright and rich color, it is worth giving frozen and live food to crustaceans. There are also drugs that can enhance the color of the shell; they are added to the food.

Caring for shrimp is not particularly difficult. In favorable conditions, cherries reproduce well and organize an entire colony. Females are constantly in a state of pregnancy. This is a great indicator that everything is fine with the cherries. Cherry shrimp are ideal for those just starting out in aquarium farming.

First - Types of shrimp for the home aquarium

Freshwater aquarium shrimp are cute little creatures that are increasingly attracting modern aquatic hobbyists. The world of aquarium shrimp is quite diverse - decapods are found in a variety of colors and colors, but they all differ in their demanding conditions.

Neocaridins

The most common and unpretentious shrimp are the best option for beginners. The wild species and its color selection derivatives are more often found on sale. Of the color variations, the most common is Neocoridina Cherry . The following options also live in aquariums:

• neocaridina white snowflake (Neocaridina cf. zhangjiajiensis var. Whi);
• yellow neocaridina or canary (Neocaridina heterpoda var. Yellow);
• blue pearl;
• orange sakura.

And many, many other varieties.

All neocaridine species can live in tap water, both soft and hard, with a very wide pH range.

The common neocaridina is almost colorless, however, it is the progenitor of all colored species, so it can bring a surprise. After some time in the aquarium, this species can turn into any of the possible color options: red, yellow, green or blue. It depends on the soil, lighting and nutrition of the shrimp.

The color saturation of neocaridines primarily depends on the color of the soil; the darker the soil, the brighter the color.

The maximum size of neocaridine shrimp is 2-3 cm, so you should not keep them with large fish, and even small fish will definitely encroach on the life of small creatures, so the aquarium must have shelters - plants, mosses, driftwood.

Breeding neocaridins is as simple as keeping them, that is, they are diluted in ordinary tap water and do not require any additional procedures.

It must be remembered that fish will happily snack on small shrimp, so they definitely need shelter.

All types of neocaridines interbreed with each other, so if the goal of keeping shrimp is to breed them, you need to keep each species separately.

Amano

Another type of unpretentious aquarium shrimp. Amano is a known tireless algae killer. However, this shrimp will not reproduce in ordinary water, since its eggs go through a larval stage, during which they must mature in salt water. A species similar in breeding to Amano is shrimp.

Pinocchio

Her young also go through the larval stage.

Macrobrachium

An unpretentious and largest species of shrimp that can live in very hard water.

Unlike the previous species considered, this is a predatory species of shrimp. Macrobrachium can not only fend for itself, but also attack some sleeping small fish or other type of shrimp.

Green shrimp babaulti

A more complex species in terms of keeping and breeding conditions. Babaulti also lives and breeds in tap water, but the percentage of spawning eggs and survival of the young is much lower. Babaulti shrimp do not interbreed with other shrimp species.

Red and black crystals

Crystals are an even more difficult type of shrimp to keep. There are also many expensive, rare and exclusive types of shrimp: tigers, bees, pandas and other species.

To keep the listed species, you need a very stable environment in the aquarium: water hardness, PH, temperature, content of phosphates, nitrates and nitrites and other macro and micro elements must remain at the same constant level. Sudden changes in these conditions can easily kill an entire population.

The percentage of eggs carried to term in these species is lower, as is the survival rate of the babies.

Bamboo filter feeder shrimp

A freshwater aquarium shrimp, also known as tree shrimp or banana shrimp. Interesting for its unusual way of eating.

Cardinal

It is still a rare species, but these shrimp are doomed to success: the body is the color of a dark rose with white specks covering the entire body.

In general, all decapod inhabitants of aquariums love stability, they are all interesting in their behavior, and extremely curious. These creatures deserve the attention of aquarists and are quite worthy of a separate aquarium.

Diseases

Most often, these representatives of arthropods suffer from parasites that penetrate under the shell, into the gills, muscles and even into the heart. The cherries affected by them are doomed.

Important! Fungal infections that are practically untreatable are extremely dangerous for shrimp. This happens mainly in overcrowded aquariums, and infection occurs most often through newly arrived newcomers

This is why quarantine, which was discussed above, is so important. The presence of copper in water is extremely dangerous for arthropods. It can enter the aquarium through the use of fertilizers for underwater plants. Also, according to experts, the death of cherries immediately after molting may occur due to a deficiency of iodine or calcium in the feed. Commonly used aquarium plants include: hornwort, marsilia, Java moss and cryptocoryne.

This happens mainly in overcrowded aquariums, and infection most often occurs through newly arrived newcomers. This is why quarantine, which was discussed above, is so important. The presence of copper in water is extremely dangerous for arthropods. It can enter the aquarium through the use of fertilizers for underwater plants. Also, according to experts, the death of cherries immediately after molting may occur due to a deficiency of iodine or calcium in the feed. Commonly used aquarium plants include hornwort, marsilia, Java moss and cryptocoryne.

Cherries live for 1-2 years, depending on the conditions and water temperature. Increasingly popular, cute, colorful and peaceful creatures are rightfully becoming welcome guests in many aquariums around the planet. Their harmless bustle pleases the eye, calms the nerves, and the presence of such creatures in the aquarium makes it more diverse and beautiful.

Briefly about aquarium shrimp and the difficulty of keeping them

Currently, more than 50 species of freshwater shrimp have been adapted to live in aquariums. Their body length varies from 1 to 15 cm. Most of them are brightly colored. However, their body structure is the same. These crustaceans have a durable chitinous covering that protects their internal organs from mechanical damage.

In addition, these creatures have long sensitive antennae, which provide a good sense of smell and touch in the water. Large eyes located on the sides provide a wide view.

They live most of their lives on the bottom, along which they move with the help of their legs, but when escaping from predators, they can swim quickly using a strong tail. At home, depending on the type of shrimp, they live from 6 months to 1.5 years.

Keeping freshwater crustaceans involves some difficulties, because... they are especially sensitive to the chemical composition of water and temperature conditions.

They require fairly spacious aquariums, because... in small containers it is extremely difficult to maintain the necessary conditions.

Freshwater shrimp have a built-in mechanism for regulating their numbers.

If their habitat is spacious and there is enough food for them, they reproduce quickly.

If the number of individuals becomes too large, large crustaceans begin to eat smaller ones.

Shrimps rarely attack other inhabitants of the aquarium, but they can become victims of predatory fish. These crustaceans are extremely useful for keeping the aquarium clean and eating algae and organic debris.

Conditions of detention

First of all, it should be noted that cherries are school animals that feel calm and at ease only in a group of at least a dozen individuals. Single or few shrimp will hide in the thickets so stubbornly that you will hardly see them.

To maintain a flock of cherries, an aquarium of at least 5 liters (for 10 individuals) is required. About a hundred of these crustaceans can be placed in a 30-liter container.

Neocaridins can live in a fairly wide range of water parameters: temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5.

The main thing is that the water should not be too soft, otherwise the shrimp will not be able to form full shells.

At the same time, cherries do not tolerate high levels of nitrogen compounds very well: ammonia and nitrites are lethal to them even in minimal concentrations; nitrate levels are allowed up to 40 mg/l.

Therefore, an aquarium with them should have high-quality biofiltration and regular water changes. And of course, under no circumstances should shrimp be introduced into an aquarium where the start-up process has not yet been completed - these animals are not suitable as pioneers.

Medicines must be introduced into the water where cherries live with caution. They should not contain copper, which is toxic to shrimp.

An important condition for the comfortable living of cherries, and any other shrimp, is the presence in the aquarium of a large number of living plants, mainly small-leaved ones. Particularly loved are mosses (Javanese, Christmas, flame, riccia), ferns (lomariopsis, Indian), as well as balls of cladophora algae

Particularly loved are mosses (Javanese, Christmas, flame, riccia), ferns (lomariopsis, Indian), as well as balls of cladophora algae.

It is good if there are floating plants on the surface of the water. If there are lush thickets in an aquarium with cherry shrimp, you can do without a mechanical filter; you just need to turn on the compressor at night.

It is highly desirable that the reservoir have shelters specifically for these invertebrates. Typically, small diameter ceramic tubes are used for this purpose.

Reproduction and sexual characteristics:

Females are larger and much brighter than males, their red color is more saturated, males are correspondingly pale, with red spots on the body. Like other aquarium shrimp, cherries carry eggs in a saddle, then the shrimp put the eggs in pleopods (paws on the tail), periodically shaking the eggs and thereby removing unfertilized or dead eggs.

The female's gestation period is 30 days. Typically, females constantly walk either with eggs in the saddle or in pleopods. It is not necessary to place the female in a separate spawning aquarium. If the aquarium is planted, then small cherry tomatoes can hide from fish without any problems. And within a year, if the conditions are suitable, a countless number of cherry shrimp will breed in the aquarium.

Since cherries are the result of selective breeding, they are prone to discoloration as a result of inbreeding (inbreeding). To minimize the degeneration of the breed, pale shrimp should be isolated (given to friends, sold), leaving the brightest ones. The main thing is not to give away all the males as paler =). Once a year, buy cherries from a different breed, thereby mixing the blood.

I would classify cherries as the most beautiful of the unpretentious and easy to breed shrimp. When buying, choosing the brightest individuals, do not forget to buy a male, although an unscrupulous seller under the guise of a male can also sell a discolored female. Due to easy reproduction, the price of cherry shrimp is not high, but of course there are very bright, high-quality cherries for which they can charge a tidy sum.

About color

The color of cherries is variable and depends on many factors. Feeding, spectrum and power of light, the presence of shelters from vegetation in the aquarium, potential threats, age, temperature, etc. The color saturation of shrimp is greatly influenced by the color of the environment, in particular the soil - on dark soil they look very bright. Sometimes it seems that even the mood of individual individuals determines their color. This is not surprising - the corresponding cells have the ability to shrink and expand.

If you put a suitable fish in a shrimp tank, guppies for example, the cherries will definitely react with increased color. At the same time, I came across statements that the most intense coloring is possible in the absence of a threat (for example, when a livebearer was removed from a shrimp tank). There are populations in which the males are almost as brightly colored as the females. To maintain bright colors in a population, selection must be made. During transportation, due to stress, they temporarily lose color and molt.

Aquarium shrimp: care, reproduction, compatibility, photos, types, description

The world of crustaceans is large. There are many aquarium inhabitants of this direction. Keeping aquarium shrimp is becoming increasingly popular. Individual shapes and sizes, a bright palette of colors, and graceful movements can captivate for a long time. Watching these babies is a pleasure, and caring for them does not bring any particular difficulties, since they are completely unpretentious.

Kinds

• cherry Body color: red, females are more inconspicuous. Dimensions 2.5-3 cm. female, 2 cm. male. An unpretentious type of shrimp. Ideal option for beginners. It reproduces quickly and can live in small aquariums.
• blue or bee shrimp. Shrimp with a bluish color. Relatively new species. The sizes of the individuals are 2 cm, male, 2.5 cm, female. Not aggressive and unpretentious in maintenance. The reproduction rate is high.
• yellow. As the name suggests, the color of this type of shrimp is yellow. Males reach a size of 2.5 cm, females - 3 cm. Not aggressive, unpretentious species. Like previous species, yellow shrimp reproduce quickly. An excellent option for beginners.
• green. Shrimp with a greenish color. Dimensions: 3 cm males, 3.5 cm females. Easy to maintain, non-aggressive. Playback speed is average.
• rednose shrimp. It has a reddish-transparent color, with a pronounced red nose. Can be used to control unwanted algae. Body size reaches: females 4 cm, males 3 cm. For breeding, the larvae require salt water. Not aggressive, medium difficulty.
• Amano shrimp. Light green, transparent color with a light stripe on the back that stretches from the head to the tail. Adult size: 4 cm male, 5 cm female. A peaceful type of shrimp, easy to keep. Larvae need salt water.
• harlequin shrimp. Has a bright contrasting color. Black, red and white colors are combined. This is a small species of shrimp, males - 0.6 cm, females - 1.2 cm. Low reproduction speed. For beginners, maintaining this species will be more difficult.
• cardinal. Bright looking shrimp. The color varies from dark red-pink to light red with white dots along the body. Dimensions: male 2 cm, female 2.5 cm. Reproduction rate is low. Requires experience in content (not for beginners).
• red crystal. Also called the red bee. A popular species in the aquarium hobby. Has a bright red color. Dimensions of an adult: male 2.5 cm, female 3 cm. High reproduction rate. Beginners may have difficulty with the content.

Amano

The classification of shrimp opens with the Amano species, one of the most popular among aquarists. Species identification: neocaridine. The name Amano is given in honor of aquarist Takashi Amano. He was the first to use these aquarium inhabitants to eat algae, and therefore to naturally clean the tank.

The shrimp has rather primitive external characteristics. Characteristics of the type:

• natural habitat - Taiwan, Korea, Japanese Yamato River;
• body length in females is up to 4 cm, in males up to 6 cm;
• life cycle – 2 – 3 years;
• color: transparent, with an admixture of gray and blue shades, which in the form of spots have a chaotic location on the sides in males; in females they look like streaks.

Required water parameters:

• temperature – from 23°C to 27°C;
• pH level – from 7.2 to 7.5;
• hardness from 2° to 20°.

Its role in the aquarium is to combat algae; it is especially effective against threadbare and blackbeard. The character is peaceful.

Harlequin

A shrimp with a miniature size, which is why it has a rather timid character. Mainly nocturnal. When the aquarium is illuminated, it prefers to hide in the depths.

Characteristics:

• Habitat: Sulawesi Island in Indonesia;
• color - alternating white and red stripes, with a black outline along the body;
• sizes of both sexes – from 0.6 to 1.3 cm;
• life expectancy – 1 – 1.5 years.

Necessary parameters in the aquarium:

• temperature from 26° to 29°C;
• acidity level – from 7.2 to 8.4 pH;
• degree of hardness – from 15° to 25°.

The shrimp leads a solitary life and has a complex, unsociable character.

White Pearl

Snowflake or white pearl is an artificially bred species of aquarium shrimp. The “father” of the species is breeder Ulf Gottschalk.

They are unpretentious in care, so both an informed amateur and a novice aquarist can keep snow beauties. The character is calm and meek.

The color is a combination of white and gray tones. The snowflake shrimp got its name due to the absolute transparency of its body. In females, white dots of the ovaries and caviar, white as snow, are visible inside. These are small aquarium inhabitants ranging in size from 2 to 2.5 cm.

Water parameters:

• temperature – from 20°C to 28°C;
• hardness level – from 6 to 20;
• acidity - no more than 7.5.

It is recommended to keep it in a flock of 10-20 individuals.

Blue Pearl

The Blue Pearl is a beautiful shrimp whose unusual color was obtained by crossing white shrimp with blue neocardines.

Characteristics:

• region of residence in nature - China;
• body size is standard for all representatives of the species - 2.5 cm;
• life expectancy – 2 years;
• color – transparent, soft blue.

The peculiarity of the blue pearl is that it can change its color from soft blue to very pale, depending on its general condition and mood. The paler the shrimp, the more uncomfortable it is. The cause may be stress, an attack from neighbors, or inappropriate water conditions.

Blue aura

One of the most beautiful representatives of aquarium shrimp, with the most impressive blue color. The species was recently bred, which explains its low prevalence among aquarists.

Characteristic:

• country of origin – Thailand;
• body length from 2 to 3 cm;
• life cycle no more than 2 years;
• color – soft azure, transparent.

Blue aura reproduces easily in an aquarium. The female shrimp carries eggs under her tail. About 30 eggs come out at a time. Representatives of the species are unpretentious in care and maintenance. For a flock of 10 individuals, a tank of up to 20 liters and clean water with certain parameters are sufficient:

• temperature from 23°C to 25°C;
• pH level – from 7 to 7.5;
• Water hardness is average.

After molting, the shrimp loses its color, becoming transparent. After some time, its color will return again and will delight the aquarist with its beauty.

Green shrimp

The ancestor was discovered in India in 1918. The species was developed through careful and lengthy selection. Those green shrimp that are used by aquarists were mostly imported from India. And only a small fraction of them were born in captivity.

Characteristic:

• Habitat: India;
• body length – up to 3.5 cm;
• color – grass green.

Water parameters:

• temperature – 20°C – 28°C;
• degree of acidity – from 6.5 to 8;
• hardness level – from 5 to 20.

The aquarium must have an aeration system. Water changes are carried out every week in a volume of at least 20%.

Cardinal

Cardinal - this type of shrimp is known to every aquarist due to its memorable appearance. The color of individuals can vary from red to cherry shades. A distinctive feature is white spots on the sides of the carcass.

Description:

• natural habitat - the rocky shore of Lake Matano, the Indonesian island of Sulawesi;
• length from 1 to 2 cm;
• distinctive features: pointed nose, long legs, which give the appearance an aristocracy.

Water in the tank:

• temperature from 26°C to 29°C;
• pH level – from 7 to 9;
• hardness parameter - from 9 to 15.

This variety of aquarium shrimp is difficult to keep and is therefore not suitable for amateurs and novice aquarists. A subspecies of the cardinal is the blood shrimp, which has a bright, rich red color.

Orange and yellow fire

Orange fire - the shrimp lives up to its name with its appearance - it is orange from head to toe. The fry of the species are born light-colored. This feature helps them protect themselves from enemies. As it gets older, its color becomes brighter.

Red fire is similar in appearance to yellow fire. This is one of the most popular types of aquarium shrimp. They differ only in their color. The characteristics and conditions of detention for orange, yellow and red shrimp are the same:

• homeland - Taiwan;
• body length – 4 cm;
• life expectancy – 3 years.

Water parameters:

• temperature – from 20°C to 29°C;
• pH level – from 6 to 8;
• hardness – no more than 15°.

The water tank must be equipped with various plants and mosses. Neon yellow shrimp hide in them from enemies.

Ring shrimp

This is one of the largest representatives of aquarium shrimp. Another name for the species is Macrobrahnum. The character is aggressive towards aquarium neighbors and towards representatives of its own species. They are nocturnal, but if they see suitable prey, they can come out of hiding during the day.

Due to the aggressive behavior of ringed shrimp, they should not be kept together with small fish.

Description of the species:

• natural habitat - the Himalayas, mountain rivers and lakes;
• body length – 7 cm;
• life expectancy is from 1.5 to 3 years.

The appearance of the shrimp is unusual and striking. Color – marble. Its saturation depends on the soil and diet. One of the claws is always larger. In females this feature is visually almost invisible, while in males it is clearly expressed.

Conditions for aquarium keeping:

• temperature – from 21°C to 25°C;
• degree of hardness – from 10 to 20;
• pH level – from 7 to 7.5.

The aquarium requires the installation of a powerful filter and strong aeration. The water is changed every week. Cold water has a positive effect on the health of shrimp, helping to prolong their life. It is necessary to select the volume of the tank based on calculations - for 1 individual at least 10 liters of water. Ring shrimp are kept only in schools. The optimal option is 1 female and 3 – 4 males.

Red Hawaiian shrimp

The Hawaiian red shrimp is an unusual species with a non-trivial appearance and an atypical reaction to stress. Initially having a juicy red carcass color, the shrimp begins to turn pale in moments of danger or fright. This is how she blends in with her environment.

The character is peaceful, the shrimp easily gets along with other aquarium neighbors. But many large fish consider it itself as an object of hunting. This is a very hardy species of shrimp that can live for several years without food, feeding only on its shell. The lifespan of the Hawaiian red shrimp is amazing - up to 20 years when the proper conditions are created.

Characteristics of the type:

• homeland - Hawaii;
• size – no more than 1.2 cm;
• the average life cycle lasts from 8 to 10 years.

The shrimp feels comfortable in both fresh and salt water. Temperature – from 20°C to 23°C. Representatives of the species can also be found in water temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. pH value – from 8.2 to 8.4.

Rhinoceros or rednose shrimp

Red Nose Shrimp or Rhinoceros, also known as Pinocchio. Externally, the individual resembles a string – thin, sonorous and graceful. This beauty with 10 legs leaves no one indifferent. The carcass is transparent, but depending on the mood of the shrimp, different shades may appear in its color.

If the rednose shrimp turns milky in color, it means it is sick. In nature, the individual is a vegetarian, therefore in the aquarium it is like a cleaner - it eats algae, regulating their numbers.

Description:

• Homeland - Southeast Asia, shrimp prefers rivers and lakes with stagnant water or with minimal current.
• The length of the body in females is up to 4 cm, in males up to 2.5 cm.
• Color – transparent. A red stripe runs from the tip of the nose to the tail.

The species is kept in salted water. Acidity – from 6.4 to 7.5, hardness – from 8 to 15. Degree of salinity – from 8 to 10 g of table salt per 1 liter of water.

King Kong or bumblebee

Bumblebee - this species is known by other names - bee, black diamond, King Kong. The species justifies its name by its color - alternating white and black stripes.

Characteristic:

• habitat – species artificially bred on the island of Taiwan;
• body length in all individuals is no more than 3.5 cm;
• life expectancy – 1.5 years.
• water temperature – from 20°C to 26°C,
• degree of hardness – from 2 to 5,
• acidity – from 6 to 6.8.

The bumblebee is a difficult shrimp to care for; only experienced aquarists can keep it. Reproduction in a home aquarium is almost impossible.

Glass shrimp

Also known as herbal or ghost. The name of the species is due to the fact that the body of the individuals is completely transparent. The species is divided into 2 subspecies - Asian (herbal) and North American (ghost).

Herbal glass shrimp.

North American ghost.

Glass shrimp have a fairly calm character, but during the breeding season they can show aggression towards small individuals. In order not to witness bloody battles, the aquarium must be of the required volume - at least 4 liters of water per individual. Body sizes in males are up to 4 cm, in females up to 5 cm. Life expectancy is from 1 to 2 years.

The content depends on the subspecies:

1. Asian: temperature range from 20°C to 28°C, acidity level – from 6.5 to 7.5, hardness parameter can be any.
2. North American: temperature from 18°C ​​to 29°C, acidity index – from 6.5. up to 7.5, water hardness – from 5 to 8.

The tank must have an aeration and filtration system. Water changes are carried out every week in the amount of 20% of the total volume.

Far Eastern shrimp

A Far Eastern species of freshwater shrimp is an aquarium orderly. Individuals actively use filament. The body is transparent. Dark transverse stripes run along the body. Color may vary depending on the soil and nutrition. Length – 5 cm. Homeland – Lake Khanka, tributaries of the Amur River.

Water parameters:

• temperature – 18°C ​​– 30°C;
• acidity – from 5.5 to 7.5;
• hardness – 10.

Aeration and filtration are required. Reproduction in fresh water is active, but out of 100 eggs, no more than 5 babies survive.

Palmata

Palmata shrimp is native to China. This species is unusual in that its representatives do not have a permanent color. The tones change depending on the food, soil, and the biochemical composition of the water. The presence of many small dots throughout the body remains unchanged in color.

Body length in males is up to 2.5 cm, in females up to 3 cm. Life cycle is up to 2 years. Conditions for keeping palmate in an aquarium:

• temperature – from 15°C to 28°C;
• acidity – from 6.3 to 8.4;
• hardness – from 2 to 20.

The shrimp is omnivorous. The species is particularly fertile, so breeding them in captivity is not difficult.

Purchase

When purchasing aquarium shrimp, you need to take into account some features. These are quite delicate creatures and when transporting it is better to try to avoid sudden movements; it is worth putting some kind of plant in a container with them so that the animals can grab onto it. The vessel should not have sharp edges or corners so that aquatic organisms cannot be injured. Plastic bags may work just fine.

Since these aquarium inhabitants require a high oxygen content in the water, the top of the transport vessel should be one third or half filled with air or oxygen, which is even better. It is recommended to buy young specimens, as they adapt better to new conditions. It should be borne in mind that a significant part of the shrimp comes from the wild, and not from fish farms, and this means that infection or parasites can be introduced into the aquarium. Therefore, when buying new shrimp, it is better to first keep them in a separate pond and watch them.

Care and maintenance

For shrimp, it is very important to have a proper aquarium with enough space for each individual. The aquarium must be selected with a liter of water per shrimp. However, with a maximum body size of 2 centimeters, two individuals can coexist in one liter.

They can be added to fish or you can prepare a separate aquarium - a shrimp tank. When keeping them in a common aquarium, the correct proximity plays an important role. The fact is that fish and shrimp are antagonists by nature. This is not about simple competition. Fish often hunt them, mistaking them for food.

A large number of shelters can provide safety for them. Shrimp can hide both in decorative elements and among plants.

When choosing plants for an aquarium, you can pay attention to Java moss. Adults can hide in it and larvae can grow. In a general aquarium there should be more such moss, then not a single fish will be able to get the shrimp from its shelter.

Shrimp, like fish, are cold-blooded animals, so whether they are active or not depends on the temperature that was created in the aquarium. It should be 20-28 degrees. But even a drop to 15 degrees will not be fatal for them. They will become less active and stop reproducing.

If the water is heated to 32 degrees, protein coagulation will occur in the body, which means probable death for all individuals. Crustaceans have increased sensitivity to sudden changes in temperature. For example, a jump of 7 degrees threatens fish with disease and shrimp with death. Therefore, if a change is planned, it must be done gradually.

The amount of water that is replaced in the aquarium should not exceed 1/5 of its volume. This procedure can be repeated no more than once a week. Shrimp can live in tap water, but it should be replaced only when the temperature warms up to room temperature.

aquarium shrimp

The chemical composition of the water is not very important. The main thing is that there is no copper in it, otherwise both adults and larvae will die. In addition, the water hardness must be high, otherwise during molting they will have nowhere to get the necessary substances to build a shell.

It is important to siphon the soil frequently as shrimp leave a lot of waste. If ammonia levels rise sharply, they will get sick.

Lack of oxygen also has a detrimental effect on these crustaceans. To enrich water with oxygen, it is necessary to install a special compressor.

If a filter is used, it must be covered with a sponge, otherwise small individuals will get inside. In shrimp tanks, a filter is not necessary, but in a general aquarium you will have to install one.

The aquarium must be equipped with a special lid, since many species can crawl outside of it. Shrimp can only survive in air for a few minutes.

Aquarium shrimp: reproduction and offspring

Aquarium shrimp reproduce frequently and actively.
In this regard, they are unpretentious and not capricious. Especially if they create all the conditions for this in the form of a cozy corner with Java moss and a couple of branchy small-leaved plants. After puberty, the female aquarium shrimp begins her mating games. One day the owner of the aquarium will notice how his pets become more active, how they rush after each other. Such “catch-up” is the prelude. Watch a video on the Internet of aquarium shrimp during mating games - a fascinating sight! It happens that one female goes to several males at once, then she bears “complex” offspring from several individuals. In small shrimp, which are translucent, you can see the process of egg maturation. The most amazing thing is to see how the visual apparatus is formed inside the egg - small black eyes appear.

Reproduction of aquarium shrimp is an interesting process that will appeal to the observant aquarist. The larva hatches from the egg after four to six weeks. Different types of shrimp do not interbreed. For example, the Amano species is not at all interested in Cherry Shrimp.

aquarium shrimp

Aquarium shrimp - compatibility with fish

Remember that shrimp can grow and reproduce well only if their neighbors in the aquarium are fish that will not encroach on their lives. The existence of the babies will be threatened by all neighbors who are larger than them in size and whose oral cavity will be able to capture the shrimp.

In the wild, these cute creatures are common food for various fish. Therefore, sensing danger, they got used to hiding with the help of plants, stones, and soil. It is worth taking note of this fact for owners who are planning to make friends between shrimp and fish. Bettas, goldfish, cichlids, melanotenias, swordtails, platies and many other cute creatures can eat or torture your little ones. Boraras brigittae will be excellent neighbors for tiny pets.

To best set up your aquarium, you should match the shrimp to the fish, and not vice versa. Filter-feeding shrimp, Mucrobrachium rosenberghi, as well as the Palameon species will not be vulnerable targets for their neighbors, and may even become dangerous cohabitants for them.

aquarium shrimp

If you want to create an aquarium in which aquarium shrimp would live together with fish, you should not select neighbors at random, then keeping your pets safe will be at risk. And this can really bother you. It's best to think carefully about your choice.

What do aquarium shrimp eat?

These pets are omnivores, so you don't have to worry too much about their diet. If shrimp live with fish, then they can easily pick up food that their neighbors haven’t eaten.

Kids also love to feast on algae growths that have formed on rocks, soil, and various plants. If your pets live alone in their glass house, then you can please them with special food. They also love to eat pieces of zucchini, peppers and lettuce. Remember that these wonderful creatures should not be overfed. Since shrimp love to eat algae and fouling, some owners give them food 1-2 times a week.

The structure of aquarium shrimp

Aquarium shrimp, unlike the same crayfish, do not have clearly defined claws; instead, they have jaws, which, in addition to motor functions, are also designed to capture, hold and deliver food to the mouth.

Aquarium shrimp have five pairs of hind legs, and a tail, which, like that of crayfish, helps the shrimp in case of danger, make sharp, jumping movements back, thus escaping from enemies in nature, and in the aquarium from aggressive fish. Also, aquarium shrimp have a good sense of smell and touch, thanks to their long antennae, and the shrimp’s eyes are even capable of rotating in different directions, which contributes to a wide view.

What plants should be planted in an aquarium with shrimp?

Here we need to acquire unpretentious, small-leaved aquarium plants. FIRSTaqua.ru wrote to you about many of them in previous articles. It is in the thickets of small-leaved plants that aquarium shrimp love to swarm. Especially if they live next to fish in an aquarium, they need to have their own secret corner where no one will disturb them. The ideal plant in this case is Java moss.

aquarium shrimp

In the thickets of this moss, more than one fish will not get shrimp, so if you decide to put shrimp in a common aquarium with fish, be sure to plant more Java moss. By the way, aquarium shrimp also reproduce very well in it; the moss serves as an excellent refuge for shrimp larvae.

Aquarium shrimp will also like Hornwort - a floating, small-leaved, unpretentious plant; this also includes Cottonwort, Cabomba and Guadalupe Naiad. The latter also creates vast dense thickets that serve as a home for aquarium shrimp.

Cladafora looks very beautiful in the aquarium. Aquarium shrimp simply adore it. It is a green ball of algae. Shrimp constantly crawl along it and collect stuck particles of food and various fouling from its fibers. This looks very funny!

Of course, we have not listed all plants suitable for aquarium shrimp. There are still a lot of them, and these are just the most common and unpretentious ones. These are the plants that novice aquarists plant.

Advantages and disadvantages

Every aquarist dreams of seeing colorful aquarium inhabitants in crystal clear water. Some create special lighting to highlight the beauty and brightness of the shrimp. This is a big plus of these crustaceans. Their choice is so wide that you can choose small shrimp to match the small beautiful fish or large, “meaningful” individuals so that they do not get lost among the beautiful fish. Moreover, their prices are rarely high (beautiful, bright crustaceans can be bought even for 50–100 rubles).

Another plus is ease of maintenance. Some types of shrimp (for example, red cherry) seem to require no care at all; they can adapt to any conditions. In addition, you don’t have to worry about the size of the tabletop reservoir. Shrimp can be stocked either in a nano aquarium (up to 1 liter) or in a very large container (up to 400–500 liters). True, the size of the individuals and the population size will depend on the size of the container. But such small creatures will help the owner keep the aquarium clean. Shrimp love to swarm at the bottom, among the leaves of plants and the surfaces of stones, so the water will not become cloudy due to uneaten food and plaque.

The disadvantage of a bright cleaner is that it can become a victim of aggressive fish. Some shrimp (such as the red cardinal) only grow to 1.5–2 cm, so a relatively large fish may mistake this creature for food. Young shrimp are especially at risk of being eaten. After all, the thin shell of crustaceans cannot protect against the teeth of predator fish. If you take good care of the shrimp, they will begin to actively reproduce. Some owners of arthropod pets have to “clean” shrimp rows. Experienced shrimp connoisseurs select those that are lighter (paler) and hand them over to a pet store or distribute them to friends. Bright and beautiful individuals will remain in a spacious aquarium.

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How to transport cherry tomatoes

When moving into a new house, cherries experience a lot of stress. The transportation process must be slow and careful (at least 60 minutes). To do this you need:

1. Place the bag of arthropods in the tank to equalize the temperature.
2. Add water from their new home to the bag in small portions.
3. Then gradually release the cherry tomatoes into the aquarium.

During transportation, the bag must contain a plant with small leaves or moss. This will prevent injury to the shrimp during shaking.

As soon as the Malacostraca get into the new tank, they will actively move around the entire home in panic. After 30 minutes they will swim into the shelters of shells, plants, and pebbles. They will stay there for up to 3 days.

At this time, the cherry tomatoes will shed due to a stressful situation and new living conditions. Until the shell hardens, the arthropods will not leave their shelter. And then the cherries will again carelessly scurry around the entire tank.

In case of quarantine

If there are shrimp in the house, then new neighbors must be added after quarantine.

Temporary isolation of cherries should not take place in an empty tank. You need to place living vegetation, shelters (snags, tubes), and substrate in it.

It should be remembered that after isolation the shrimp will again be in a state of stress (when moved to a common reservoir). Accordingly, molting will begin, the females will shed their eggs. Consequently, in the absence of other varieties of shrimp and the reliability of the supplier of new individuals, you can immediately place the new settlers in a common tank.

When to add shrimp to the aquarium?

• First you need to prepare the aquarium. It is washed in tap water. The main thing is not to use substances that contain chemicals. Pour gravel inside and pour in water. It needs to be prepared first. Using a special conditioner, remove chlorine, chloramine and other harmful substances from it. Immediately install the filter and run it. If the water becomes cloudy at first, don’t worry. After some time it will become transparent again. Then put in a thermometer.
• Within 24 hours the water will reach +30°C. Then start planting the plants. Plant varieties with long stems at the back. Plants with rosettes should be in the middle, and compact species should be in the foreground. If you plant moss, place it near glass. Remember that moss is an important detail. After all, shrimp use it for shelter and food.
• After a day, add crustaceans. To begin with, they acclimatize . To do this, place the shrimp in a bag and lower it into aquarium water for 2-3 hours. Then you can put them into the container. After 7 days, the first water change is carried out (about 15% of the total volume). After this, this process should be carried out every week. Clean the soil several times a month using a siphon.
• After 20 days, you need to test the water for nitrates, acidity, nitrites and ammonia. Special tests are purchased at pet stores. The normal pH level is 6-7.5. There should be no nitrites or nitrates in the water at all.

Recommended water values:

• neutral or alkaline (from 6.8 to 8.5 pH);
• hardness – from 6 to 25;
• temperature – from +15°С to +30°С.

What kind of aquarium does cherry shrimp need?

How to choose an aquarium for cherry shrimp? In fact, everything is very simple here. Unlike other inhabitants of the aquarium, which can grow to very large sizes. And who need a large aquarium. in the case of cherry shrimp, you can start from the space that you are ready to allocate for their maintenance. This is one of the few cases when it can be recommended not to buy a container for keeping the inhabitants as large as possible. Since shrimp will look more advantageous in small aquariums. Yes, they do not require a large reservoir. On the contrary, you will be able to examine the life of cherries in great detail.

Cherry shrimp in the clearing

So, you have free space on your bedside table, chest of drawers or shelf. There's no such thing? It doesn’t matter, a desk or computer desk will do. The main thing is that the surface is smooth and stable. The table should not wobble or shake. If you decide to place an aquarium at your workplace, a 5-10 liter aquarium is quite suitable.

Below is an example of my 10 liter aquarium. Installed at the workplace next to the computer. Yes, yes, at that moment, when I took the photo, I ordered pizza

Shrimp aquarium on the desktop

Shrimp aquarium on the desktop close-up

Cherry shrimp are very undemanding. However, this does not mean that their content can be approached carelessly. Like any living inhabitants, they require simple but regular care. By and large, these shrimp can be kept even in a liter jar on the windowsill. Subject to the availability of natural soil, living plants and water changes. If you don't believe me. Here is confirmation of my words. You can watch a video about an aquarium and shrimp living in a 1-liter jar.

Shrimp aquarium volume 5 liters

In a 5-liter shrimp aquarium, you can successfully keep 5-10 pieces of cherries (photo of such an aquarium above). And if this aquarium is equipped with a filter, for example, a mounted waterfall filter for nano aquariums, the number of shrimp can be doubled. Thus, we come to the question of the necessary aquarium equipment for shrimp.

Shrimp diseases

Aquarium shrimp are highly adaptable, so they are least susceptible to disease. But most often they are carriers of bacteria and harmful microorganisms. If not properly cared for, aquarium shrimp can harbor certain types of parasitic creatures, such as:

• Suvoiki (Vorticellidae);
• trumpeter ciliates (Stentoridae);
• parasitic worms of the genus (Scutariella);
• parasitic algae (Cladogonium ogishimae).

Treatment of shrimp is not required, you just need to eliminate the cause of bad water and improve living conditions.

Varieties of Neocoridine Shrimp

In nature, all arthropods are discreet, often transparent in color, and the bright colors of the Cherry were obtained as a result of the selection efforts of ichthyologists.

Shrimp Canaries

No different from cherry except for yellow-lemon color. Aquarists nicknamed this neocoridina the canary for its cheerful disposition. Bred by Japanese ichthyologists.

Red Crystals

These neocoridines have a very beautiful red and white striped color, but low immunity due to closely related mutations during hybridization.

Harlequin shrimp

The smallest, dwarf aquarium neocoridines, their maximum size is slightly more than a centimeter. Their color also includes scarlet and snowy colors. Very fearful.

Amano shrimp

These neocoridines have a green body background, along which a bright white stripe runs, and brown markings on the lateral surfaces of the shell.

Red nose shrimp

They have such a strange name because of the bright red marking on the front of their head. They are large in size - up to 5-6 cm.

Riley shrimp

These neocoridines can have different colors - purple, azure, orange, calico.

Breeding work to develop new species of colorful crustaceans is constantly ongoing, and new varieties of shrimp have already appeared:

• White pearls;
• Blue;
• Yellow.

If an aquarist decides to place an arthropod crustacean inhabitant in his artificial pond, then the choice of variety must be taken very seriously. Otherwise, there is a risk of acquiring not a peaceful and cheerful cleaner, but an aggressive but timid predator.

Second - Shrimp Behavior

If you are not yet familiar with these small, multi-legged aquarium inhabitants and are just about to purchase them, or have just recently purchased aquarium shrimp, you will certainly have many questions about the behavior of these unusual creatures.

You may be frightened by their excessive activity, or, on the contrary, by their apathy, so it is worth reading this section to know when you need to worry about the behavior of shrimps, and when, on the contrary, to calm down.

A healthy aquarium shrimp is always active; it constantly moves from place to place, fingering something with its paws. Shrimp move in an aquarium mainly along the ground and plants, sometimes going swimming in the water column.

Group swims usually occur when females begin to “walk”, releasing pheromones into the water to attract males, and also after a water change - the so-called “rain effect”.

Sometimes you can see how all the shrimp swim together in the water column.

Over-activity of aquarium shrimp is often observed after a water change. When you add fresh water to the aquarium, the krill perceives this as “rain”, that is, an abundant supply of fresh fresh water.

In the first hours or even days after the change, you can observe a whole boom: all the shrimp rise into the water and begin to “fly” around the aquarium. This is normal behavior and there is nothing to worry about, apparently this is how these animals get a “high”.

When you really need to worry: If you have fish in your tank. The fact is that most fish will happily eat shrimp. Even if the fish are small, baby shrimp easily fall into the fish's mouth.

If there are a lot of hiding places in the aquarium, the shrimp can hide in them without any problems. But during the “rain”, both adults and children swim in the water column, and here the children are in danger of being eaten, because what kind of fish would refuse food that flies into its mouth on its own. And you won’t be able to resist this, unfortunately. That is why it is recommended to completely avoid the proximity of shrimp and fish. The only exceptions are algae eaters.

If a shrimp sits in place for a long time without moving or behaves strangely, there is a problem in the aquarium! This may be associated with some diseases, but most often it indicates “dirty” water in the aquarium. If there have been no water changes for a long time, or the aquarium is very overpopulated (even if only with shrimp or snails), then it is very likely that harmful organic impurities have appeared in the water, which are dangerous in themselves, and can also lead to a sharp change in the pH of the water, which also very dangerous.

• Ammonium or ammonia - these substances should not be present in the aquarium at all, and their presence even in small quantities can lead to health problems for all inhabitants of the aquarium.
• Nitrites - they should also not be there, or their amount should tend to zero. The maximum permissible level is 0.2 mg/liter (this is the norm for fish; shrimp may already have problems).
• Nitrates - there should be a minimum acceptable amount (not higher than 80 - 100 mg/liter, but again this is the norm for aquarium fish).

If shrimp sit motionless in place for a long time, they are most likely poisoned, and measures must be taken immediately! Start with a one-time change of 25% - 30% of the water volume, and if necessary, it can be repeated in subsequent days.

Decapods are very curious; when they get into a new aquarium, they will not calm down until they fully explore it. Everyone knows the passion of shrimp for new objects: put a new pebble on the bottom, and after a while decapod researchers will gather on it.

Shrimp regularly molt, especially in a new aquarium or after water changes, which frightens the owners - the skin after molting is very reminiscent of a dead shrimp. Molting is a sign of normal functioning of the shrimp’s body, no need to worry. There is no need to remove the discarded skin - your pets will enjoy it with pleasure.

Still, aquarium shrimp are amazing inhabitants of the aquarium; their unusual behavior is often fascinating. That is why getting them is the right decision!

What plants do shrimp prefer?

Choose unpretentious algae with small leaves - this is what shrimp like most.

You can plant an underwater “garden” with Java moss, hornwort, shieldwort, cabomba, Guadalupe naiad, and cladophora.

All these thickets will be an excellent hiding place for aquarium shrimp.

How to properly keep shrimp

The aquarium in which you plan to keep shrimp should be of such a size that it can hold the required amount of water: at least 1 liter for one shrimp. But if they are small, up to 2 cm in length, then in this case you can count on 2 individuals per 1 liter.

Shrimp are cold-blooded animals, and their activity is directly related to the temperature of the water. For their comfortable existence, water with a temperature of 20 to 28°C is suitable. But even 15-degree water will not kill them, their activity will simply decrease, and they will not organize mating games in water that is so cold for them.

But extreme heat is truly destructive for them: already at 32 degrees, the protein in their body will begin to coagulate.

Crustaceans do not tolerate temperature changes well.

For example, a sudden 7°C jump - in one direction or another - will lead to the death of shrimp. The temperature regime should be changed little by little so that the shrimp’s body gets used to these changes.

The water replaced weekly should be approximately 1/5 of its volume. You cannot fill the aquarium with water taken straight from the tap: it must first settle and warm up to the desired temperature.

Regarding the chemical composition of the water: it should not be too hard, and there should not be a high concentration of copper in it - this threatens death for all individuals.

And siphon the soil as often as possible, because the natural waste of shrimp produces ammonia, and when there is too much of it in the water, the inhabitants of the aquarium can become sick.

The shrimp tank must be equipped with a compressor so that there is enough oxygen in the water. When using a filter, you should cover the suction part with a piece of sponge, as small shrimp can get in there.

And don’t forget to put a special lid on the tank with shrimp - if one of them crawls out of the water, it will soon die, since it cannot live for long outside its habitat.

What do shrimp suffer from?

If shrimps are not properly cared for, they may develop bacterial and fungal infections brought into the aquarium by ciliates, suvoys or trumpet ciliates.

By replacing contaminated water, you will get rid of this problem. Due to parasitic algae, shrimp can become infected with false mycosis - for this reason they may stop reproducing. This disease can be cured with the help of malachite green dye mixed into the food.

Parasitic worms that feed on the blood of shrimp can settle on the head, abdomen and in the gill area.

They can be cured both with medications designed to rid fish of external parasites, and with the help of table salt (5 g per liter of water).