Sakura Red Shrimp care guide

Sakura Red Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi var. 'Sakura') — minimum tank 20 L, temperature 18-28 °C, pH 6.5-8.

Overview

The Sakura Red Shrimp is a mid-grade selectively bred line of Neocaridina davidi developed in Taiwan. It is named for the deeper, more uniform red colouration than the basic Red Cherry; females typically display solid red bodies while males remain paler.

Taxonomy

• Family: Atyidae
• Genus: Neocaridina
• Scientific name: Neocaridina davidi var. 'Sakura'
• Common synonyms: Sakura Shrimp, Mid-grade Red Cherry

Habitat

Wild Neocaridina davidi originates from streams of Taiwan and southern China, where waters are neutral to slightly hard. All Sakura stock is captive-bred and tolerates a wide range of parameters in mature planted aquariums.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 20 L (5.3 US gal)
• Adult size: 2-3 cm
• Temperature: 18-28 °C (64-82 °F)
• pH: 6.5-8
• GH: 4-14 °dGH
• KH: 2-8 °dKH
• Lifespan: 1-2 years

Diet

A continuous biofilm grazer and detritivore. Diet is supplemented with prepared shrimp foods, blanched vegetables and occasional protein. Feed small amounts once daily; uneaten food should be removed to protect water quality.

Compatibility

Peaceful and best kept in a species-only or shrimp-dominated tank. Suitable tankmates include Otocinclus, Endler's Livebearer, Pygmy Cory and Nerite Snails. Avoid cichlids, crayfish and any larger fish that may predate on shrimplets.

Breeding

Easy to breed in the home aquarium. Females carry 20-30 eggs under the pleopods for roughly 30 days; offspring are miniature shrimp that feed on biofilm. Stable water and the presence of moss or fine-leaved plants improve survival rates.