Cherry Shrimp (Super Red)

Appearance:

• Size: Super Red Cherry Shrimp grow to around 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in length.
• Coloration: The "Super Red" variant is the result of selective breeding and boasts an incredibly vibrant, solid red coloration across the entire body, with minimal to no transparent areas. The deeper the red, the higher the grade of the shrimp. Females are typically larger and more vividly colored than males, who may appear slightly paler.
• Grading: Grades of Cherry Shrimp are based on the intensity and consistency of their red color, with "Super Red" being among the highest grades. The better the grade, the more solid and uniform the red color across the shrimp.

Natural Habitat:

• Origin: Cherry Shrimp, including the Super Red variant, originate from freshwater streams and rivers in Taiwan. The Super Red color morph, however, has been developed through generations of selective breeding in captivity.
• Environment: In the wild, they inhabit slow-moving, plant-filled waters with lots of surfaces for biofilm to grow.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Super Red Cherry Shrimp are highly adaptable but thrive in water temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). The ideal range is 72-78°F (22-26°C).
• pH: They prefer neutral to slightly alkaline water, with a pH range of 6.5-7.5.
• Water Hardness: Moderate water hardness is recommended, with GH 6-8 and KH 3-6. They can tolerate softer or harder water, but stable parameters are key.
• Water Quality: Clean, well-oxygenated water is essential for their health. Regular water changes are needed to maintain low levels of nitrates (below 20 ppm) and eliminate ammonia and nitrite, which should always be at 0 ppm.

Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 5 gallons is suitable for a small colony, but larger tanks (10 gallons or more) are better for stable water conditions and expansion of the shrimp population.
• Substrate: Inert substrates like sand or fine gravel are ideal. Darker substrates enhance their red coloration, making them stand out more.
• Plants & Decorations: Heavily planted tanks with low-growing plants, mosses (Java Moss or Christmas Moss), and floating plants provide cover and surfaces for biofilm growth. Driftwood and rocks also offer hiding spots and natural grazing surfaces.
• Filtration: A gentle sponge filter is recommended, as it won't harm the shrimp and provides surfaces for beneficial bacteria and biofilm. A low-flow filter ensures oxygenation without creating strong currents.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient, especially if live plants are present. Super Red Cherry Shrimp are not particularly sensitive to light but appreciate some shaded areas.

Behavior:

• Peaceful: Super Red Cherry Shrimp are non-aggressive and make excellent tank mates for other peaceful species.
• Active Grazers: They are highly active throughout the day, constantly foraging for biofilm, algae, and detritus on plants, decorations, and the substrate.
• Social: They are social animals and thrive in groups, so it’s best to keep them in colonies of at least 10 individuals. The larger the colony, the more active and confident the shrimp will be.

Tank Mates:

• Suitable Tank Mates: Super Red Cherry Shrimp can live peacefully with small, non-aggressive fish like tetras, rasboras, guppies, and Otocinclus. Snails, such as Nerite or Mystery snails, also make excellent companions.
• Shrimp-Only Tanks: Many shrimp keepers prefer to keep Cherry Shrimp in species-only tanks to reduce the risk of predation, especially if breeding is desired.
• Avoid Predatory Fish: Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish, such as cichlids, that may view them as prey.

Feeding:

• Omnivores: Super Red Cherry Shrimp feed primarily on biofilm, algae, and detritus, but they also require supplemental feeding to ensure a balanced diet.
• Diet: Provide high-quality shrimp pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (like spinach, zucchini, or kale), and protein-rich foods such as frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp on occasion. Spirulina-based foods and leaf litter are also good options.
• Algae Control: While they do help keep algae under control, they are not as effective as Amano Shrimp. Their primary role is scavenging uneaten food and organic matter, helping to keep the tank clean.

Breeding:

• Ease of Breeding: Super Red Cherry Shrimp are prolific breeders and will reproduce readily in well-maintained aquariums with stable water conditions.
• Breeding Setup: No special breeding setup is required. Females will carry eggs under their abdomen for 3-4 weeks. Once the eggs hatch, the baby shrimp, known as shrimplets, are fully formed and ready to fend for themselves.
• Selective Breeding: If you wish to enhance the intensity of the red color in offspring, selective breeding can help achieve more vivid coloration in future generations. Separating high-grade individuals from the colony can ensure a more uniform red color over time.

Lifespan:

• Lifespan: Super Red Cherry Shrimp typically live for 1-2 years, though with excellent care, they may live slightly longer.

Special Considerations:

• Copper Sensitivity: Like all shrimp, Super Red Cherry Shrimp are highly sensitive to copper, which is often found in medications and fertilizers. Always check labels and avoid any products that contain copper.
• Acclimation: When introducing them to a new tank, use the drip acclimation method to help them adjust to changes in water parameters.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes (10-20% weekly) are essential to keep water parameters stable and maintain excellent water quality.