Ocean Blue Shrimp

Description

Ocean Blue Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi var. “Ocean Blue”)

Ocean Blue shrimp are a striking variety of Neocaridina davidi, typically growing to 2-4 cm in length. Their most distinctive feature is their rich blue coloration that mimics the deep waters of the ocean, ranging from a vibrant azure to a deep marine blue. Unlike the more intense Blue Dream variety, Ocean Blues often display a more natural, slightly translucent quality to their coloration that creates a particularly ethereal effect.

The blue coloration in Ocean Blues has a unique characteristic that sets them apart – their color has a subtle depth and translucency that creates an almost oceanic effect, hence their name. High-grade specimens show consistent coloring throughout their body, but may display slight variations in intensity that add to their natural appearance. Under aquarium lighting, their coloration can shift between different shades of blue, sometimes showing hints of turquoise or deeper navy tones.

Like other Neocaridina species, Ocean Blue shrimp possess a straight or slightly curved rostrum, well-developed eyes on short stalks, and long, sensitive antennae. Their walking legs (pereopods) and swimming legs (pleopods) often display a lighter, more translucent version of their body coloration, contributing to their oceanic appearance. The slight transparency of their exoskeleton can create interesting light effects, particularly when viewed under different lighting conditions.

Sexual dimorphism is present, with males typically being smaller and showing slightly less intense coloration compared to females. Mature females are notably larger and develop a more rounded abdomen for carrying eggs. When berried, females carry eggs that appear as small bluish spheres visible through their exoskeleton. Female Ocean Blues often display more intense coloration, particularly during breeding periods.

As a Neocaridina variety, Ocean Blue shrimp are relatively hardy and adaptable. They thrive in a range of water parameters: pH 6.5-7.8, GH 6-8, KH 2-5, temperatures between 20-28°C (68-82°F). They readily accept a variety of foods including standard fish flakes, shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, and naturally occurring biofilm. Their coloration can be enhanced through a diet rich in natural color-enhancing foods.

Taxonomy:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Malacostraca
Order: Decapoda
Family: Atyidae
Genus: Neocaridina
Species: N. davidi

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