Blue Velvet Shrimp, also known as Neocaridina davidi var. Blue, are captivating freshwater creatures that have captured the attention of aquarium enthusiasts. With their vibrant blue color and unique markings, they add a touch of elegance to any aquarium.
But there's more to these shrimp than just their appearance. In this article, we will delve into the intriguing world of Blue Velvet Shrimp, exploring their sex differences, care requirements, diet, tank setup, and filtration.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aquarist, there is much to discover about these fascinating creatures. So, let's dive in and uncover the secrets of Blue Velvet Shrimp.
Key Takeaways
- Blue Velvet Shrimp are beginner-friendly and can be cared for by beginners.
- They are small in size, reaching up to 2 inches, and can be kept in a minimum tank size of 10 gallons.
- Male and female shrimp can be distinguished by their size and color, with females being larger and more colorful.
- Blue Velvet Shrimp require a balanced diet of shrimp flakes, algae flakes, pellets, and blanched vegetables, and leftover food should be removed to prevent water pollution.
Stats and Appearance

What are the key physical characteristics and statistics of the Blue Velvet Shrimp, a popular freshwater shrimp species among beginner aquarists?
Blue Velvet Shrimp, scientifically known as Neocaridina davidi, exhibit unique traits that make them an attractive addition to aquariums. These shrimp have an average size of up to 2 inches, making them suitable for smaller tanks.
Their body is adorned with a bright blue color, with variations in shade and hue. Additionally, they have dark spots covering their body, adding to their aesthetic appeal.
The Blue Velvet Shrimp possesses five pairs of legs, including maxillipeds, which are used for grabbing food. An important physical feature is the presence of antennae on their head, which serve the crucial function of detecting movement in their surroundings.
These physical characteristics, along with their vibrant color variations and antenna function, make the Blue Velvet Shrimp an intriguing choice for beginner aquarists.
Sex Difference and Care
The Blue Velvet Shrimp exhibits distinct sex differences, which are important to consider when caring for these freshwater shrimp. Female shrimp develop a saddle under their stomach for carrying eggs, while male shrimp are smaller in size compared to females. Females are also more colorful than males. Observing both male and female shrimp together makes it easier to identify these sex differences.
When it comes to breeding behavior, Blue Velvet Shrimp are known to be prolific breeders under optimal conditions. They undergo a molting process where they shed their exoskeleton in order to grow. During this time, they are vulnerable and may seek shelter to protect themselves. Breeding behavior typically occurs after molting, with the female carrying the fertilized eggs under her saddle until they hatch.
To ensure proper care for Blue Velvet Shrimp, it is important to be mindful of their sensitivity to metals like copper and zinc. It is recommended to avoid fish medications containing these metals and carefully check the ingredients of medications, fertilizers, and food for the tank.
Additionally, maintaining a clean tank by removing leftover food after two hours and avoiding overfeeding is crucial to prevent waste accumulation and ammonia buildup.
Diet

Blue Velvet Shrimp have an omnivorous diet, consuming a variety of foods in their natural habitat. These shrimp exhibit diverse feeding habits, which include grazing on algae, consuming microorganisms, and scavenging detritus.
In order to maintain their health and well-being, it is important to provide them with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional requirements. This can be achieved by offering a combination of shrimp flakes, algae flakes, and pellets. Additionally, blanched vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, lettuce, cucumber, and spinach can be provided as a supplementary food source.
It is crucial to remove any leftover food after feeding to prevent water pollution. By ensuring their dietary needs are met, blue velvet shrimp can thrive and exhibit their vibrant blue coloration in captivity.
Tank Care
To ensure the optimal care and well-being of blue velvet shrimp, it is essential to pay close attention to tank maintenance and water quality. Here are some important aspects to consider:
- Temperature requirements:
- Blue velvet shrimp thrive in temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F.
- Maintaining a stable temperature within this range is crucial for their health and reproduction.
- Using a reliable heater and thermometer will help ensure the ideal temperature is maintained.
- Water parameter maintenance:
- The pH level should be kept between 6.2 and 8, while the water hardness should be within 0 to 8 KH.
- Regular water testing and adjustments are necessary to maintain these parameters.
- It is important to monitor ammonia and nitrate levels and keep them at safe levels to prevent stress or harm to the shrimp.
- Tank setup and filtration:
- Blue velvet shrimp can be housed in a 5-gallon tank, but a 10-gallon tank is recommended for optimal space and replicating their natural habitat.
- Choose a substrate with smooth pebbles or fine grains, preferably with a rocky bottom for their comfort.
- Incorporate various plant species for shade and as a source of food.
- Use a filter that is gentle and not too strong to avoid harming the shrimp.
- A water heater may be necessary to maintain the desired temperature.
Tank Setup and Filtration

Setting up the tank and choosing the right filtration system are crucial steps in creating a suitable environment for blue velvet shrimp. When setting up the tank, it is important to choose the right filter to maintain water quality.
Blue velvet shrimp are sensitive to water parameters, so it is essential to ensure that the filter is not too strong, as it may harm the shrimp. Sponge filters and under gravel filters are ideal options for blue velvet shrimp tanks, as they provide gentle water flow without causing any harm.
Additionally, a water heater may be necessary to maintain the high temperature range of 72°F to 82°F, which is optimal for the shrimp. Proper filtration plays a key role in maintaining the health and well-being of blue velvet shrimp in the tank.
Breeding and Reproduction
The breeding and reproduction process of blue velvet shrimp involves intricate behaviors and physiological changes. Understanding these aspects is essential for successfully breeding this species. Here are three key points to consider:
- Breeding techniques:
- Provide a separate breeding tank with optimal water parameters, including temperature, pH, and hardness.
- Introduce both male and female shrimp into the breeding tank.
- Ensure the tank has plenty of hiding places, such as moss or plants, to create a suitable environment for mating.
- Reproduction cycle:
- Female shrimp carry their eggs in a saddle-shaped structure called the 'saddle' under their abdomen.
- After mating, females will lay fertilized eggs and attach them to their pleopods.
- The eggs will hatch into tiny shrimplets within 3-4 weeks, depending on temperature and other conditions.
- Caring for newborn shrimplets:
- Provide a well-established tank with plenty of biofilm and microorganisms as a food source.
- Ensure the tank has a sponge filter to prevent the shrimplets from being sucked in.
- Regularly monitor water parameters and maintain optimal conditions to promote healthy growth.
Common Health Issues and Solutions

One of the important aspects of keeping blue velvet shrimp in optimal health is understanding and addressing common health issues that may arise. Preventive measures play a significant role in maintaining the well-being of these freshwater shrimp.
Ensuring a clean and stable water environment is crucial, as fluctuations in temperature, pH, and water quality can lead to stress and susceptibility to diseases. Additionally, avoiding overcrowding in the tank and providing adequate hiding places can reduce stress levels.
Disease treatment options for blue velvet shrimp include the use of medications specifically formulated for freshwater shrimp, such as antibiotics and antifungal treatments. It is important to closely monitor the shrimp for any signs of illness, such as discoloration, lethargy, or abnormal behavior, and promptly seek appropriate treatment.
Regular water testing and observation of the shrimp's behavior are essential to detect any health issues early on and take appropriate action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Blue Velvet Shrimp Live With Other Types of Shrimp in the Same Tank?
Blue Velvet shrimp can generally live with other types of shrimp in the same tank, as long as their requirements for water parameters and tank size are met. However, caution should be exercised to prevent interbreeding and maintain optimal conditions for breeding. Their feeding habits include being omnivores and consuming a variety of foods such as algae, microbes, detritus, shrimp flakes, algae flakes, pellets, and blanched vegetables.
How Often Should I Clean the Tank for Blue Velvet Shrimp?
To maintain optimal water conditions for blue velvet shrimp, it is recommended to clean the tank once every two weeks. This helps remove waste and debris that can contribute to water pollution. The ideal temperature range for a blue velvet shrimp tank is between 72°F and 82°F.
Do Blue Velvet Shrimp Need a Specific Type of Lighting in Their Tank?
Blue velvet shrimp do not require a specific type of lighting in their tank, but they benefit from a moderate to low light intensity. Java moss, Anubias, and Marimo balls are some of the best plants for a blue velvet shrimp tank.
Can Blue Velvet Shrimp Tolerate High Levels of Nitrate in the Water?
Blue Velvet Shrimp have a low tolerance for high levels of nitrate in the water, which can be harmful to their health. It is important to maintain a clean and well-filtered tank to ensure their well-being.
What Are Some Common Signs of Illness in Blue Velvet Shrimp and How Can I Treat Them?
Common signs of illness in blue velvet shrimp include lethargy, loss of appetite, abnormal behavior, discoloration, and visible parasites. Prevention methods include maintaining proper water parameters, regular water changes, and quarantining new shrimp. Treatment options vary depending on the specific illness and may include medication, water adjustments, and improved diet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Blue Velvet Shrimp, Neocaridina davidi var. Blue, is a popular freshwater shrimp species among aquarium enthusiasts. With a maximum size of 2 inches and an average lifespan of 2 years, these shrimp exhibit vibrant blue colors with variations in shade and hue.
It is important to note the sex differences, with females developing a saddle for carrying eggs and males being smaller in size. By providing proper care, diet, tank setup, and filtration, aquarium enthusiasts can successfully keep and enjoy these captivating creatures.
One interesting statistic is that Blue Velvet Shrimp have been known to exhibit different shades of blue depending on the water conditions and diet provided.