🔍 Neocaridina vs. Caridina – Differences, Similarities & Tips for Selection

🦐 Two shrimp species, one goal: a vibrant aquarium

Shrimp are among the most popular invertebrates in freshwater aquariums – and if you learn about them, you'll quickly come across two names: Neocaridina and Caridina . 🪸
At first glance they appear similar, but on closer inspection there are clear differences in husbandry, requirements and breeding .

In this article, we'll show you the differences between the two types, which one suits you better, and which is ideal for your aquarium. 👇

🧬 Origin & Biodiversity

🦐 Neocaridina – robust and beginner-friendly

Neocaridina shrimp originate from East Asia and are known for their remarkable hardiness and adaptability. The best-known species is Neocaridina davidi , which has been bred in numerous color variations.

  • 🔴 Red Cherry

  • 🔵 Blue Dream

  • ⚫ Black Sakura

  • 🟢 Green Jade

💡 They are considered the perfect choice for beginners, as they can easily live and reproduce in most tap waters.

🪸 Caridina – colorful and sophisticated

Caridina species also originate from Asia, but are significantly more diverse and demanding. They impress with spectacular colors and patterns. Examples from your product range:

  • ❄️ Snow White Bee Shrimp ( Caridina logemanni )

  • 🔵 Royal Blue Tiger OE Shrimp ( Caridina cantonensis )

  • ⚫ Black Taiwan Bee Shrimp ( Caridina cantonensis )

  • 🟠 Orange Tiger OE Shrimp ( Caridina serrata )

  • 🐝 Bumble Bee Shrimp ( Caridina sp. )

  • 🟡 Yellow King Kong Shrimp ( Caridina serrata )

💡 Caridinas are popular with enthusiasts because they display unique patterns and targeted breeding lines are possible.

💧 Water parameters & husbandry conditions

Herein lies the biggest difference between the two genera:

feature 🦐 Neocaridina 🪸 Caridina
temperature 18–24 °C 20–23 °C
PH value 6.5–8.0 5.8–6.8
Total Hardness (GH) 6–20 °dGH 4–6 °dGH
Carbonate hardness (KH) 3–15 °dKH 0–2 °dKH
Conductivity 300–600 µS 150–250 µS
Water sufficient tap water Osmosis water + remineralizing salt recommended

✅ Neocaridina: very tolerant, ideal for normal tap water.
⚠️ Caridina: sensitive to fluctuations, require soft, treated water.

🪱 Behavior & Care

🦐 Neocaridina

  • Very active and constantly searching for food

  • Ideal for community tanks with peaceful fish

  • They are forgiving of care mistakes and rarely react sensitively.

🪸 Caridina

  • Somewhat more reserved and sensitive

  • They need consistent conditions for long-term success.

  • Perfect for species tanks and breeding projects

🐣 Breeding & Propagation

feature 🦐 Neocaridina 🪸 Caridina
difficulty very simple rather demanding
Young animals hatching fully developed very sensitive
Reproduction regularly and frequently only under ideal conditions
Special conditions no Stable water parameters and biofilm are needed.

✅ Neocaridina: Reproduction occurs almost automatically, even in community tanks.
⚠️ Caridina: Breeding is only successful under optimal parameters, but rewards with rare color variations.

🌿 Nutrition & Feed

Both species are omnivores , feeding on biofilm, algae, plant debris and special shrimp food.
However, Caridina shrimp are more sensitive to overfeeding and food quality . High-quality, natural shrimp food is particularly important here.

👉 Tip: In our shop you will find natural shrimp food, leaves and care products that are perfectly suited to both species.

📊 Comparison: Neocaridina vs. Caridina at a glance

category 🦐 Neocaridina 🪸 Caridina
Claim ⭐ (very low) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (high)
Water parameters flexible sensitive
breed very simple demanding
Variety of colors large extremely large
Price cheap sometimes more expensive
For beginners ✅ very good ⚠️ More suitable for advanced users
For breeders ✅ good ✅✅✅ very good

🧠 Choosing tips

  • 🐣 Beginners: Start with Neocaridina – they are forgiving of mistakes and show great behavior.

  • 🪸 Advanced & Enthusiasts: Caridina offer spectacular colors and exciting breeding projects.

  • 🧪 For those interested in breeding: Caridinas are ideal if you want to selectively breed and create new lines.

  • 🐌 Mixed keeping: Only possible to a limited extent, as water parameters differ.

✅ Conclusion: Two shrimp – two worlds

Both Neocaridina and Caridina bring life, color, and dynamism to the aquarium. 🌿
While Neocaridinas are robust, easy to care for and perfect for beginners, Caridinas offer a fascinating world for enthusiasts with their diversity, colors and breeding options.

👉 In our shop you will find a large selection of both species , suitable food, leaves and care products so that you can optimally care for your shrimp.

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