Blue Diamond Shrimp: A Guide for Aquarium Enthusiasts

The Blue Diamond Shrimp is a stunning freshwater shrimp variety prized for its deep blue coloration and ease of care. A variant of Neocaridina davidi, this shrimp is popular among beginner and experienced aquarists alike.

Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi var. “Blue Diamond”
• Common Name: Blue Diamond Shrimp
• Family: Atyidae
• Natural Habitat: Originally from Taiwan, these shrimp thrive in slow-moving freshwater streams with dense vegetation.
• Behavior: Peaceful and highly active scavengers, often seen grazing on surfaces in the tank.
• Tank Preferences: Prefers well-planted tanks with hiding spots like driftwood and rocks.
• Ideal Water Parameters:
  • pH: 6.5 – 7.5
  • Hardness: Soft to moderate (4-10 dGH)
  • Temperature: 20-26°C (68-78°F)
• Care Level: Easy

Origin and Distribution

The Blue Diamond Shrimp is a selectively bred variation of the Neocaridina davidi species, originally found in Taiwan’s freshwater streams. These shrimp have been developed by breeders to achieve their rich blue coloration.

Colors and Markings

The Blue Diamond Shrimp exhibits a solid, deep blue or royal blue coloration, often with a slightly translucent body. Higher-grade specimens display an even more intense blue without any visible markings or transparency.

Tankmates

• Best Companions: Peaceful nano fish like neon tetras, ember tetras, chili rasboras, and otos.
• Other Shrimp Compatibility: Can be kept with other Neocaridina shrimp, but selective breeding is recommended to maintain color purity.
• Avoid: Aggressive fish like cichlids, bettas, or large predatory fish that may view them as food.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a stable environment.
• Filtration: Sponge filters or gentle filtration to prevent sucking shrimp into the intake.
• Water Changes: Weekly 10-20% water changes to maintain stability.
• Lighting: Moderate to low lighting encourages natural algae growth, a food source for shrimp.
• Substrate: Dark substrate enhances their blue coloration.

Diet and Feeding

• Diet Type: Omnivore
• Food Recommendations:
  • High-quality shrimp pellets
  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
  • Algae wafers
  • Biofilm and detritus from the tank
• Feeding Frequency: Once per day in small amounts to prevent overfeeding.

Gender Differences

• Males: Generally smaller and less vibrant in color.
• Females: Larger with a more intense blue coloration and visible saddle (egg pouch) when ready to breed.

Breeding

• Difficulty: Easy
• Breeding Requirements:
  • Stable water parameters
  • Plenty of hiding spots for juveniles
  • Higher temperatures (24-26°C) can encourage breeding
• Eggs & Growth: Females carry eggs under their abdomen for 3-4 weeks before hatching into miniature shrimp. Juveniles are fully independent and will scavenge for food.

Additional Resources

For more shrimp care guides, consider looking into other Neocaridina variations such as Cherry Shrimp, Bloody Mary Shrimp, or Orange Rili Shrimp.