How long do neocaridina shrimp live properly cared for, the adorable red cherry shrimp (Neocaridina) is a great choice of tankmate for freshwater aquariums. Like all invertebrates, a shrimp’s lifespan depends on many factors including its nutrition, water parameters, and tankmates.

The shrimp’s 10 legs, a hard exoskeleton, and a pair of antennae distinguish it from the broader aquatic fauna. A shrimp belongs to the order of decapod crustaceans, which includes other crustaceans such as lobsters and crayfish.

Unlocking the Secrets of Neocaridina Shrimp Lifespan: A Comprehensive Guide

As shrimp are lower on the food chain, they have natural predators such as fish, sea urchins and even whales. Fortunately, shrimp raised in captivity tend to have significantly longer lifespans than their wild counterparts that live in unsuitable habitats or get eaten by a hungry predator.

Among the most popular freshwater invertebrates, Neocaridina shrimp can thrive for up to 1-2 years under ideal conditions. Their water parameters should be kept stable, and they can be fed a variety of fresh and frozen foods. It is important to avoid feeding shrimp anything with added copper, which can poison them.

When a female shrimp is ready to lay eggs, she will develop a saddle-shaped mark on her back and release pheromones to signal her availability to male shrimp in the aquarium. The males will then respond to these pheromones by swimming actively about the tank. After the brief mating process, the female will affix the eggs to her swimmerettes and the young will hatch within a few weeks.