Description
🌟 Bloody Mary Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi var. Bloody Mary)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi (Bloody Mary variant)
Common Name: Bloody Mary Shrimp
Size: ~1 – 1.2 inches (2.5 – 3 cm)
Lifespan: 1.5 – 2 years
Tank Zone: Bottom to mid (always grazing on surfaces, plants, and moss)
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 100 – 250 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 20°C – 26°C (68°F – 79°F)
Water Type: Freshwater, stable and cycled tank
Hardness: Soft to medium hard
🐟 Characteristics
Deep, rich blood-red coloration (more solid than Cherry Shrimp)
Transparent red shell with visible inner body (unique feature vs. Cherry Shrimp)
Peaceful and active cleaner shrimp
Hardy and beginner-friendly but show best color in planted aquariums
Easy to breed → females carry eggs and release tiny shrimplets
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous scavenger
Diet: Algae, biofilm, shrimp pellets, spirulina, blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, cucumber), specialized shrimp food
Feeding Frequency: 3–4 times per week (tiny portions, avoid overfeeding)
🛠️ Maintenance
Weekly water change: 15–20%
Provide moss, driftwood, and live plants (best for grazing & hiding)
Sponge filter is recommended (safe for babies)
Stable water quality is critical → avoid copper and sudden changes
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 10+ (best in colonies for natural behavior & breeding)
Tank Mates: Peaceful nano fish (rasboras, ember tetras, guppies, otocinclus), snails, other Neocaridina shrimp
Avoid: Large/aggressive fish (cichlids, bettas, barbs, goldfish) → may prey on shrimp
✅ Do’s
Keep in well-planted tanks with moss (Java moss is best)
Provide hiding spaces (rocks, caves, driftwood)
Acclimate slowly to prevent stress
Keep a colony for stable breeding population
❌ Don’ts
Don’t mix with aggressive or large fish
Don’t keep in unstable or brand-new tanks
Don’t overfeed → causes pollution and kills shrimp
Don’t use copper-based meds or fertilizers
⭐ Quick Tips
A striking, solid-red shrimp that stands out in planted aquariums
Hardy and easy to keep, perfect for both beginners & advanced hobbyists
Breed easily if water is stable and food is available
Great algae eaters and natural tank cleaners
