Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) Locally Bred-Shrimp Index

Blue Dream Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) are a vibrant, hardy, and beginner-friendly freshwater shrimp species that make a stunning addition to planted aquariums.

• Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi
• Common Names: Blue Dream Shrimp, Blue Velvet Shrimp, Sapphire Shrimp
• Size: 1–1.5 inches (up to 2 inches max)
• Lifespan: 1–2 years
• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive 

Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 5–10 gallons (larger tanks offer more stability)
• Substrate: Dark or rocky substrate enhances color and mimics natural habitat
• Plants: Java Moss, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, and Amazon Sword provide hiding spots and biofilm
• Filtration: Sponge filters or HOB filters with pre-filters to prevent shrimp from being sucked in
• Lighting: Moderate lighting (6–8 hours/day) to support plant growth without excessive algae
• Lid: Recommended to prevent escapes and maintain stable temperature 

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68–78°F (20–25.5°C)
• pH: 6.5–8.0
• GH (General Hardness): 6–8 dGH
• KH (Carbonate Hardness): 0–2 dKH
• TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 150–300 ppm
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm 

• Diet: Omnivorous scavengers
  • Algae wafers
  • Shrimp pellets
  • Blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, carrots)
  • Biofilm and detritus
• Feeding Frequency: Once daily or every other day; only what they can eat in 2–3 minutes to avoid overfeeding 

Breeding

• Ease: Very easy under stable conditions
• Maturity: Around 75–90 days
• Egg Incubation: 25–35 days
• Fry Care: Shrimplets feed on biofilm; ensure a mature, planted tank with hiding spots
• Reproduction Rate: 20–50 shrimplets per batch 

Tank Mates

• Compatible: Other Neocaridina shrimp, small tetras, rasboras, pygmy corydoras, snails
• Avoid: Aggressive or large fish like angelfish, goldfish, or danios 

Special Tips

• Avoid copper in medications or fertilizers—it is toxic to shrimp.
• Regular water changes and testing are essential.
• Overfeeding is a common cause of death—less is more.