Overview of the species, origins, popularity in aquatics, and why they make great pets What Are Neocaridina Shrimp? Neocaridina shrimp, often referred to by their most popular variety—the Cherry Shrimp—are small, freshwater dwarf shrimp belonging to the family Atyidae. These charming invertebrates have gained immense popularity among aquarium hobbyists due to their vibrant coloration, low maintenance requirements, fascinating behaviors, and utility in keeping tanks clean. Native to parts of East Asia, particularly Taiwan and China, the Neocaridina genus includes several species, with Neocaridina davidi being the most widely kept in the aquarium trade. Their manageable size (typically 1–1.5 inches in adulthood), peaceful nature, and wide variety of color morphs make them not only visually appealing but also suitable for a broad range of aquarists—from beginners to advanced hobbyists and aquascaping enthusiasts. Origins and Natural Habitat Native Environment Neocaridina shrimp are originally found in the freshwater streams and ponds of East Asia. Their natural habitats include slow-moving, shallow waters with lots of vegetation, leaf litter, rocks, and hiding spots. These ecosystems provide abundant biofilm and detritus, which are primary food sources for shrimp in the wild. The environments they originate from tend to be temperate, with moderate temperatures and soft to moderately hard water. Species Identification and Classification While Neocaridina davidi is the species most frequently seen in aquariums, it was previously referred to as Neocaridina heteropoda . Over time, taxonomic revisions clarified its identity. It belongs to the order Decapoda, meaning “ten-footed,” which includes crabs, lobsters, and other shrimp. Neocaridina are categorized as dwarf shrimp due to their small size, and they exhibit behaviors and breeding patterns that distinguish them from larger, more aggressive species. The domestication of Neocaridina davidi in captivity began with wild brown or greenish-gray specimens. Over years of selective breeding, aquarists enhanced and stabilized various color morphs, resulting in today's stunning array of colors including red, yellow, orange, blue, green, black, and more. The Rise in Popularity Neocaridina shrimp have undergone a dramatic rise in popularity over the last two decades. Once relatively obscure and considered niche pets, they now have a prominent place in freshwater aquaria around the globe. Several factors have contributed to their booming popularity: Aesthetics The sheer beauty of Neocaridina shrimp is one of the main attractions. These shrimp are available in a wide spectrum of colors, and many varieties—like the Fire Red Cherry Shrimp or Blue Dream Shrimp—are the result of meticulous selective breeding. Their jewel-like appearance adds striking visual interest, especially against green aquatic plants and dark substrates. Low Bioload Unlike fish, shrimp produce very little waste, making them ideal for small tanks and nano aquariums. They do not overburden the filtration system or quickly foul the water, making them a practical choice for small-scale aquarists or those who want to add activity to a planted tank without significantly increasing the bioload. Fascinating Behavior Neocaridina shrimp are highly engaging to watch. They spend most of their time scavenging and foraging for food. You can often observe them picking through biofilm, nibbling algae off plant leaves, or interacting socially in small groups. Their transparent limbs, rhythmic movements, and coordinated antennae activity give insight into a small, intricate world that is often overlooked in larger aquarium settings.