Blue Shrimp - Mixed Grade 1-2cm

Blue Shrimp

Blue Cherry Shrimp are an absolute eye-catcher and staple species in the aquarium trade, they make for great entry-level invertebrates for novice aquarists who are wanting to branch out from just keeping fish. Their vibrant blue colour comes from the art of selective breeding which means they are well suited for aquarium conditions. Because of the incredibly small size, ease of keeping, fast breeding, and bright popping colours they are loved both by beginners and experienced aquarium enthusiasts. 

The term mixed grade is associated with the intensity of the colour these shrimp have, multiple factors such as genetics, water parameters, and environment plants a large part in how deep the blues are with these shrimp. These blue shrimps are also commonly referred to as blue dreams, they have a deep translucent blue shell with darker specks through the body. They are a great shrimp to populate a nano aquarium or to experiment with developing the grade to create more intense blue shrimp. The blue shrimp can tolerate a wide range of aquarium conditions and thrive in both cold and tropical environments. They are also a great clean-up crew member in nano community aquariums however their unique colours would make for a beautiful standalone shrimp display. 

Blue cherry shrimp are great for nano desktop aquariums as they max out at around 5cm meaning they can also be easily bred for sale in small aquariums. This makes them a popular species for novice breeders looking to make some easy profit. These blue shrimps are not found naturally in the wild as they are selectively bred invertebrates for the captive environment.

Tank Recommendations for your Blue Shrimp.

The blue cherry shrimp only reach 5cm and can be kept easily in aquariums as small as 20 liters (5 gallons). Ideally, a 30-liter aquarium with some moss and a basic sponge filter would be a perfect environment for these shrimp as it ensures a safe method of filtration and provides cover for juvenile shrimp. Shrimp are not overly concerned with their aquascape, they can be kept on a multitude of substrates ranging from sand, aqua soil, and gravel along with hardscape materials such as wood and rock. They will also greatly appreciate plants as this provides great coverage whilst also making them contrast really well. 

In a breeding setting, aquarists commonly keep shrimp just a substrate of thin aqua soil as the dark soil contrasts these blue shrimps. It is also easy to catch out the best-looking individuals to line breed them further. Elevated temperatures of 25 degrees also enhance their metabolism meaning they grow faster and breed faster which is ideal for breeding settings. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

The blue dream shrimp remain small and can easily be predated by fish. It is usually recommended to keep these shrimps alone as even the smallest of fish will prey on newborn shrimp. Adult shrimp however can be kept with a wide range of nano fish with no issues and if there is adequate cover for baby shrimp to survive, they will grow fine as well.

Usually Compatible

Other strains of shrimp, Endler guppies, dwarf Corydoras, and other fish max out at 5cm or less.

Sometimes Compatible

Much risk shouldn’t be taken with larger tankmates over 5cm as these will easily prey on these shrimp however success has been seen with other fish species such as white clouds and betta.

Rarely Compatible

Dwarf cichlids, tiger barbs, goldfish, and other species would readily prey on the blue shrimp. 

Feeding your Blue Shrimp

Feeding blue cherry shrimp is extremely easy as they only require small amounts of food and accept a wide range of food as well. Generally, a small sinking pellet or algae tablet is a great food option, along with this they can be supplemented with blanched veggies such as pumpkin and zucchini.