Neocaridina vs Caridina shrimp: the differences you need to know

Caridina vs. Neocaridina Shrimp: What You Need to Know

If you’re thinking about adding shrimp to your aquarium, you’ve probably heard about Caridina and Neocaridina shrimp. Both are fantastic choices, each with their own unique qualities and care requirements. Let’s break down what makes these two types of shrimp different and what you should consider when choosing the right one for your tank.

1. Origins and Background

Caridina Shrimp

Caridina shrimp are from the Caridina genus and mostly hail from Asia. Think places like Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. Popular species include the Crystal Red Shrimp and the Taiwan Bee Shrimp (Blue Bolt, Shadow Panda, Red Wine etc). These shrimp are used to specific environments and often have unique, vibrant patterns.

Neocaridina Shrimp

On the other hand, Neocaridina shrimp belong to the Neocaridina genus and are native to Southeast Asia, particularly Taiwan. The most famous species is the Neocaridina davidi, which includes varieties like Bloody Mary Shrimp and Blue Dream Shrimp. They’re known for their adaptability and come in a wide range of bright colors.

2. Appearance

Caridina Shrimp

  • Size: Caridina shrimp are usually a bit smaller, reaching around 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 4 cm).
  • Color and Patterns: These shrimp are often quite stunning, with intricate color patterns and a variety of hues. The Crystal Red Shrimp, for example, has a beautiful, delicate appearance with striking red and white patterns.
  • Body Shape: They tend to have a more elongated and delicate body.

Neocaridina Shrimp

  • Size: Neocaridina shrimp are generally a bit larger, growing up to 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm).
  • Color and Patterns: They’re famous for their bright, solid colors. You’ll find them in shades like red, blue, yellow, and green, and their colors tend to be more uniform.
  • Body Shape: Neocaridina shrimp have a sturdier and more robust build.

3. Care and Environment

Caridina Shrimp

  • Water Needs: These shrimp need specific water conditions. They prefer soft, slightly acidic to neutral water. Aim for a pH of 6.0 to 6.8 and keep the water soft with low general hardness (GH).
  • Temperature: They like it cool, ideally between 68-74°F (20-23°C).
  • Tank Setup: Caridina shrimp can be sensitive to changes, so a stable environment with live plants and good filtration is crucial.

Neocaridina Shrimp

  • Water Needs: Neocaridina shrimp are a bit more flexible. They can handle a range of water conditions, including slightly harder water and a wider pH range (6.5 to 8.0).
  • Temperature: They’re comfortable in a broader temperature range, from 65-78°F (18-26°C).
  • Tank Setup: They’re pretty adaptable and can thrive in various tank setups, whether planted or more basic. They’re also more forgiving of changes in water quality.

4. Breeding

Caridina Shrimp

  • Breeding: Breeding Caridina shrimp can be a bit trickier because they need very stable water conditions. Some species also require specific conditions for their larvae, which may need brackish water to grow.

Neocaridina Shrimp

  • Breeding: Neocaridina shrimp are known for being prolific breeders. They breed easily in a range of conditions, and their young are born as tiny versions of the adults, which makes raising them easier.

5. Tank Mates

Caridina Shrimp

  • Compatibility: Caridina shrimp can be a bit sensitive when it comes to tank mates. They do best with small, peaceful fish and other shrimp. Aggressive or larger fish might stress them out.

Neocaridina Shrimp

  • Compatibility: Neocaridina shrimp are generally more adaptable and can get along with a wider variety of tank mates. They’re often chosen for community tanks because they’re hardy and can coexist with different species. Just remember that fish will eat whatever fits in their mouth and that baby shrimplets are very small

Conclusion

Choosing between Caridina and Neocaridina shrimp comes down to your tank’s conditions and how much time you can dedicate to their care. Caridina shrimp offer incredible beauty and variety but need buffering soil and remineralized RODI water. Neocaridina shrimp are tougher and more flexible, making them a great choice for both beginners and seasoned aquarists.

By understanding these differences, you’ll be better equipped to create a thriving environment for your shrimp and enjoy the vibrant life they bring to your aquarium. As always feel free to email us at teacherspetnw@gmail.com with any questions



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