Yellow Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)

The Yellow Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) is a vibrant freshwater dwarf shrimp known for its bright yellow coloration, making it a striking addition to any planted aquarium. This shrimp is a selectively bred variant of the wild Neocaridina species and is hardy, easy to care for, and great for beginners. It is an excellent algae-eater and helps maintain a clean aquarium by consuming detritus and biofilm.

 

Description

Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi

Common Names: Yellow Shrimp, Golden Shrimp, Yellow Cherry Shrimp

Size: Up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

Lifespan: 1.5–2 years

Temperament: Peaceful and social, best kept in groups

Diet: Omnivore – eats biofilm, algae, blanched vegetables, and high-quality shrimp pellets

Tank Size: Minimum 5 gallons (larger tanks encourage breeding and stability)

Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 68–78°F (20–26°C)
  • pH: 6.5–7.5
  • GH: 6–12 dGH
  • KH: 3–8 dKH
  • TDS: 150–250 ppm

Appearance
Yellow Shrimp have a solid yellow or golden-yellow body, with some variations showing a slight transparency. Higher-grade specimens have a deep, uniform yellow color with minimal translucency.

Care Requirements
Tank Setup: Prefers planted tanks with moss, driftwood, and leaf litter to encourage biofilm growth.

Behavior: Active and peaceful, often seen foraging on surfaces and climbing plants.

Compatibility: Best suited for shrimp-only tanks or peaceful nano community tanks. Avoid large or aggressive fish that may prey on them.

Why Choose the Yellow Shrimp?
✔ Bright yellow color adds a unique contrast to planted aquariums
✔ Hardy and beginner-friendly – adaptable to various water conditions
✔ Helps control algae and cleans up detritus naturally
✔ Easily breeds in stable water conditions, forming self-sustaining colonies

Note: Avoid copper-based medications, as they are toxic to shrimp. Use a gentle sponge filter to protect baby shrimp from being sucked into the filter.