Fire Red Shrimp

Description

Fire Red Shrimp

Fire Red shrimp are a selectively bred, high-grade variety of Neocaridina davidi, typically growing to 2-4 cm in length. Their most striking feature is their intense, solid red coloration that surpasses the standard cherry red variants in both coverage and intensity. The best specimens display a deep, uniform red that appears to glow like burning embers under aquarium lighting.

The red coloration in Fire Reds is notably more intense than lower grades of red Neocaridina, extending throughout the entire body including areas that might appear transparent in regular cherry shrimp. High-grade Fire Reds show solid coloration in their legs, antennae, and even their shell, with no transparent or pale areas. The intensity of their red can range from a bright, vibrant scarlet to a deep, rich crimson, with the most valued specimens showing complete, uniform coverage.

Like other Neocaridina species, Fire Red 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) maintain the same intense red coloration as their body, contributing to their uniform appearance. Even their eyes often display a reddish tint, though they remain fully functional.

Sexual dimorphism is present, with males typically being smaller and sometimes 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 reddish spheres visible through their exoskeleton. Female Fire Reds typically show more intense coloration, particularly during breeding periods.

As a Neocaridina variety, Fire Reds are relatively hardy and adaptable. They thrive in a wide 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 hardiness makes them excellent for both beginners and experienced keepers.

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