Species Profile
The Chocolate Shrimp is a popular choice for freshwater shrimp hobbyists because of its intriguing dark color, as well as being relatively easy to care for and breed. Characterized by deep, rich hues ranging from burnt umber to a dark, near-black cocoa, these shrimp are the result of meticulous selective breeding of the Red Cherry line. Interestingly, the Chocolate Shrimp is a genetic powerhouse; it is the direct ancestor of many other popular varieties, including the Yellow Goldenback and Blue Dream. Whether they appear as a solid dark brown or feature subtle striping over a translucent base, they offer a unique, moody aesthetic that stands out brilliantly against light-colored sand or bright green moss.
**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 specimens featuring unique cocoa-to-near-black pigmentation for a sophisticated, natural look.
- Hardy, beginner-friendly Neocaridina variety adapts smoothly to a wide range of water parameters.
- Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
- Peaceful, social behavior for community aquariums.
- Eager and prolific breeders that quickly establish vibrant, self-sustaining colonies.
Care Specifications
- Maintain clean, well-filtered water 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.
- Provide textured hardscape like lava rock or mosses to maximize surface area for beneficial biofilm growth and shrimplet shelter.
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 var. "Chocolate" |
| Common Name(s) |
Chocolate Shrimp, Black Cherry Shrimp, Black Rose Shrimp |
| Care Difficulty |
Easy |
| Adult Size |
1.2" (3.0 cm) |
| Diet |
Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Scavenger |
| Minimum Tank Size |
5 Gallons (10ā20 Gallons Recommended) |
| Temperature Range |
65Ā°Fā80Ā°F (18Ā°Cā27Ā°C) |
| pH Range |
7.0ā7.6 |
| General Hardness (GH) |
4ā8 dGH |
| Carbonate Hardness (KH) |
3ā15 dKH |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) |
200ā300 ppm |
| Lifespan |
1ā2 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 Chocolate 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 Chocolate 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.
