Bloody Mary Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) – The Deep Ruby Royalty of the Aquarium

Category: Freshwater Shrimp
Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi
Aliases: Bloody Mary Neocaridina, Ruby Neocaridina
Origin: Selectively bred in Taiwan from wild Neocaridina populations native to southern China
Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting enhances red saturation
Substrate: Dark, inert substrate recommended for strongest coloration and comfort
Size: Juvenile/Adult

Parameters (Neocaridina Standard):
GH: 6–12
KH: 2–8
pH: 6.8–7.8

Striking Crimson Elegance

The Bloody Mary Shrimp is one of the most prized Neocaridina morphs for its rich, ruby-red coloration that appears solid even under bright light. Unlike more translucent red lines, the Bloody Mary strain features a deeper pigmentation within the shell structure itself, creating a gem-like glow that sets it apart from standard Cherry shrimp variants. Their color retains depth from all angles, making them a premium choice for aquascapers seeking a bold centerpiece species.

These shrimp create an eye-catching contrast against plants, moss, and hardscape, drawing attention anywhere they graze or swim. Their constant activity and confident visibility make them an excellent option for display aquariums where vibrant movement is key.

Color, Behavior, and Development

Young shrimplets may start with slightly lighter red hues, but through stable water conditions, nutritious feeding, and a healthy molting cycle, their pigment rapidly deepens. High-grade adults demonstrate uniform, opaque red tones from head to tail, with legs and rostrum taking on the same saturated red color — a defining characteristic of the Bloody Mary line.

They are peaceful, social, and thrive in groups. Heavily planted tanks with wood, botanicals, and textured surfaces help support natural foraging behavior and provide crucial microhabitats for juvenile shrimp.

Care, Feeding, and Ideal Conditions

Bloody Mary Shrimp succeed best in cycled, stable aquariums with gentle water movement and well-established biofilm. Their diet should include algae, biofilm, shrimp-specific foods, spirulina, and blanched vegetables. Foods high in carotenoids and astaxanthin are especially beneficial, helping maintain vivid coloration across generations.

Leaf litter, cholla wood, and natural botanicals not only improve environmental comfort but also promote beneficial microbe growth that supports healthy juvenile development. Peaceful tank mates such as small rasboras, snails, or other Neocaridina are recommended.

Breeder Pack Options

• Breeder Pack includes two males and eight females not including extras.

• Ultimate Breeder Pack includes two males and eight females not including extras along with three ounces of shrimp food one cholla wood and five almond leaves.

Bonus Tip

Offer a mix of tannin sources and mineral foods to enrich both color and shell health — these shrimp respond dramatically to a diet tailored for high-grade red pigment.

Complete your shrimp order with some vibrant plants! They provide essential hiding spots and enhance the natural look of your tank, creating a healthier, more enriching environment for your shrimp. Add plants to your order for a thriving, beautiful setup!

Check out the DOA POLICY and SHIPPING INFORMATION before placing an order!.