Blue Velvet Shrimp

The Blue Velvet Shrimp is the selectively bred red color variant of neocaridina Shrimp. Originally selectively bred in Tawian for its blue coloration, the Blue Velvet Shrimp is becoming one of the most popular Dwarf Shrimp across the globe.

Blue Velvet Shrimp are non-aggressive and are quite active. In an aquarium that has no predators, Blue Velvet Shrimp will often be observed grazing on algae on aquarium plants, decorations, and on the substrate. When fed, the shrimp will often form large groups that are quite striking in appearance.

Like their red cherry shrimp cousins, blue velvet shrimp aren’t demanding at all when it comes to housing. An aquarium of at least 5 gallons (19L) is a good place to start, although more is better, especially if you’re a beginner. More experienced shrimp keepers might keep their blue velvets in smaller containers, like plant bowls. If you’d like to do this, keep in mind that water quality should be closely monitored.

As with all shrimp and aquariums in general, a blue velvet tank should always be filtered and cycled. Shrimp are very sensitive to ammonia and nitrites, so these should always be kept at 0. Nitrates should be low as well. If you’re looking to breed your blue velvets, be sure to use a sponge filter or at least a prefilter sponge. The fry are very small and can easily be sucked into the filter.

You can find the full Blue Velvet Shrimp care sheet in the link.

As with all aquatic invertebrates, it is important to make sure copper does not get into the aquarium. Copper is toxic to all Dwarf Shrimp. Many medications contain elevated levels of copper, so it is recommended not to medicate an aquarium with Dwarf Shrimp in it.