Yellow shrimp- Neocaridina davidi var. "Yellow"
Yellow shrimp have a beautiful yellow color. These yellow shrimp are not very popular in our hobby. Very unfortunate, because the color contrasts well with green plants and a dark soil. In addition, these shrimps are not demanding and will quickly feel at home in the aquarium.
Yellow shrimp information
This shrimp species is a robust species. They have great adaptability. They can survive in both hard water and soft water. A pH range between 6.0 and 8.0 and temperature between 10 and 30°C presents no problems. This makes Yellow shrimp a species recommended for beginners. They are strong animals and it is almost impossible to go wrong. Of course it is the job of the caretaker of these animals to make them as comfortable as possible. An optimal pH is between 6.8 and 7.5. The temperature is ideally between 20 and 23°C. Another reason for the popularity of Yellow shrimp is that they make excellent cleaners. They actively contribute to the control of algae.
Appearance
Yellow shrimp (Neocaridina davidi var. "Yellow") shrimp have an intense yellow color. The legs are partly yellow. Eventually, adult animals can reach a size of 4 cm. They usually stay a bit smaller and grow to around 2-3cm. Females grow larger than males and are more intensely colored. In addition, females have a wider body. Sometimes a so-called "saddle" is visible in the females. These will become eggs later. They will scale from time to time to grow. Do not be alarmed if there is a skin of a shriveled shrimp in the aquarium.
Housing
These shrimp are easy to keep and don't need much. The aquarium should be at least 15 liters in size. Shelters are much appreciated. This can be in the form of plants, wood, stones or other crevices that they can crawl between. Moss and plants with fine leaves in their environment will make them feel safe. Existing plants will make the water quality more pleasant for them. In the moss they can search for food and shelter to their heart's content.
Behavior and fellow residents
Shrimp are real group animals. They use the presence of peers for a sense of security. So preferably always keep more than 10 copies together. They are almost constantly looking for food. Everything they walk over is plucked. They do not interfere with other fish and are very peaceful. They can therefore be kept with all other aquarium animals without any problems. The other way around is not always a good idea. Their small size will allow them to serve as food for larger fish species. Beware of fish with a mouth big enough to fit a shrimp. Bettas, Chichlids, Gouramis, Large Tetras and Large Barbs are not a good match. If they are not eaten, they can live to be about 2 years old.
Nutrition
As mentioned, Yellow shrimp are constantly scanning surfaces. Algae and other edible substances from the biofilm are eaten. They leave plants alone. Supplementary feeding is desirable if there are a relatively large number of shrimps in the aquarium. This can be done, for example, with sticks, granulate or pads from our range of shrimp feed. Catappa leaves, Walnut leaves and other natural materials can also be fed. Cooked vegetables such as carrots and spinach will also appeal. Keep in mind that they are small animals with small stomachs. Feeding too much is not desirable.
Breeding Yellow shrimp
Breeding Yellow shrimpis very simple. It really doesn't require anything special. However, an ideal temperature is 25°C. To kick-start the mating process, refresh with cooler water. A female can carry 20-50 eggs. The eggs develop under the mother's abdomen, after which young animals are released after 1 to 1.5 months. These young animals are very small and vulnerable. A good biofilm in the aquarium or fine dust feed provides them with nutrition. Because they are so small, they can easily be sucked into the filter. Always apply protection around the suction of the filter. For example with a sponge or pantyhose. Baby shrimp are very delicate and a meal for all fish. This is an extra reason to provide sufficient shelter. After about 3 months, the shrimps are sexually mature and can start taking care of new fry themselves.
