Bloody Mary Shrimp
Species Profile
The Bloody Mary Shrimp is the ultimate expression of red, and no, you don't have to chant their name into a mirror three times to see them appear in your shrimp tank. While often compared to high-grade Fire Red Cherry Shrimp, these freshwater shrimp are genetically and physically distinct. In most red varieties, the pigmentation is concentrated in the shell; however, Bloody Marys feature deep red tissue (flesh) beneath a crystal-clear shell, resulting in an intense, liquid-like crimson glow. Physically, you can spot them by a noticeably shorter rostrum (nose) compared to standard Cherry Shrimp!
Spooky name aside, Bloody Marys are just as hardy and active as their cousins. They are prolific scavengers, spending their days haunting the shrimp aquarium to graze on biofilm and algae. Their brilliant red hue provides a jaw-dropping contrast against dark substrates and lush green aquascapes.
**Note: All livestock orders will come carefully packaged with solid wall Styrofoam insulation and shipped via 1-day shipping only. No additional insulation is needed for your livestock.
Key Features & Notes
- Tank-raised unsexed juveniles exhibiting intense crimson tissue.
- Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
- Peaceful, social behavior for community aquariums and nano setups.
- Eager and prolific breeders that quickly establish vibrant, self-sustaining colonies.
Care Specifications
- Maintain stable water chemistry with proper GH and KH levels to support clean, problem-free molting.
- Keep water parameters strictly free of copper-based medications or heavy metals.
- Supplement their diet with plant-based shrimp pellets, spirulina, and blanched vegetables to ensure proper minerals for molting when natural algae is low.
- Leave molted shells in the tank so fry and adults can ingest essential minerals for growth.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to maintain stable parameters to ensure a healthy, thriving colony!
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Neocaridina davidi "Bloody Mary" |
| Common Name(s) | Bloody Mary Shrimp, Red Cherry Shrimp Variant |
| Care Difficulty | Easy |
| Adult Size | 1.25" (3.0 cm) |
| Diet | Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Scavenger |
| Minimum Tank Size | 5 Gallons (10+ Gallons Recommended) |
| Temperature Range | 68°F–76°F (20°C–24°C) |
| pH Range | 6.8–7.6 |
| General Hardness (GH) | 4–8 dGH |
| Carbonate Hardness (KH) | 2–5 dKH |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | 150–300 ppm |
| Lifespan | 1–2 Years |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I properly acclimate my new freshwater shrimp to prevent shock?
Dwarf shrimp are sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters and total dissolved solids (TDS). Always drip acclimate new arrivals over 1 to 2 hours before releasing them into your tank. Follow our step-by-step tutorial in 7 Easy Steps to Drip Acclimate Shrimp and Fish for the perfect drip rate setup.
2. What substrate is best for keeping dwarf shrimp healthy?
It depends on the species! Neocaridina species like Bloody Mary Shrimp thrive in inert substrates like gravel, sand, or dark volcanic soil, while Caridina species prefer active aquasoils that buffer pH down. Learn how to select the right foundation for your aquarium shrimp in our Best Substrate for Shrimp Guide.
3. How do I get my colony to start breeding?
As long as water parameters remain stable, temperatures stay in the low 70s, and adequate food is present, dwarf shrimp will breed naturally. To maximize baby shrimplet survival rates and learn how to support berried females, read our complete guide on How to Breed Freshwater Shrimp.
4. Are dwarf shrimp easy to care for if I am a beginner?
Yes, Neocaridina species like Bloody Mary Shrimp are exceptionally hardy, adaptable to standard tap water conditions, and ideal for beginners. Get a complete overview of parameters, diet, and setup requirements in our Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp Care Guide.