Neocaridina palmata

The Blueberry Shrimp, Neocaridina palmata, is a highly sought-after dwarf shrimp praised for its adaptability and ease of care, making it an excellent candidate for both novice and experienced aquarists. Originating from Asia, this species thrives in well-established freshwater aquariums with low water flow, which mimics its natural habitat. A gentle sponge filter is an ideal choice for their enclosure, as it provides ample surface area for biofilm grazing and prevents tiny shrimplets from being drawn in.

Their wide tolerance for water parameters is a significant advantage. They are comfortable in a pH range from slightly acidic to alkaline (6.2-8.0) and can adapt to soft or hard water, making them suitable for most tap water sources without extensive remineralization, provided the parameters remain stable. For optimal health, aiming for a Total Dissolved Solids reading around 200 is a good benchmark. While they are strictly freshwater, they can tolerate minor salinity, which aids in treating certain fish diseases in a shared tank.

As omnivores, their diet is incredibly varied. In a mature tank, they will sustain themselves primarily by consuming biofilm, algae, and detritus, acting as a diligent clean-up crew. This natural foraging behavior is why supplemental feeding is only recommended every other day. A balanced diet should include high-quality shrimp pellets, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients for robust growth and successful molting.

Behaviorally, N. palmata is a shoaling species that requires the company of its own kind to feel secure; a minimum of six individuals is recommended to encourage natural foraging and reduce stress. Their moderate activity level means they are constantly exploring their environment, primarily on the substrate but also throughout the water column. With a very low bioload factor, they produce minimal waste and consume very little oxygen, allowing for a higher stocking density compared to fish. Breeding is a straightforward process for this species. Given stable water conditions and a sufficient food source, females will readily carry and hatch eggs, releasing miniature, fully-formed versions of themselves directly into the aquarium, allowing the colony to grow with little to no special intervention.

Neocaridina palmata is a small, freshwater decapod crustacean from the Atyidae family, commonly referred to as the Blueberry or Pearl Shrimp. Native to Asia, this species has a conservation status of Least Concern (LC) according to the IUCN, indicating stable and widespread wild populations.

Physiologically, N. palmata is characterized by a low metabolic rate and very low oxygen consumption. This allows it to thrive in low-flow freshwater systems and contributes to its minimal ecological footprint within a closed aquarium system. Its bioload factor is exceptionally low at 0.3, signifying its very low waste production and minimal contribution to the nitrogen cycle. The body morphology is described as compressiform. This crustacean is strictly freshwater, with a maximum salinity tolerance of 0.5 ppt, and thrives in a temperate range of 18-26°C.

Ethologically, N. palmata exhibits shoaling behavior and should be maintained in groups with a minimum of six individuals to facilitate natural social interaction and foraging. It is an active and omnivorous detritivore whose primary ecological role is that of a biofilm consumer. Its diet consists of algae, biofilm, detritus, and can be supplemented with prepared foods. Its feeding frequency is low due to its efficient foraging and low metabolism. The species occupies multiple swimming zones, including both benthic and pelagic areas of its environment.

Reproduction is characterized as 'easy', implying direct development where ovigerous females carry eggs that hatch into fully formed juveniles, bypassing a free-swimming larval stage that would require different environmental conditions. This reproductive strategy allows for rapid and self-sustaining colony growth within stable aquarium parameters. The typical lifespan is approximately two years, with adults reaching a maximum size of 2.5 cm. It is adaptable to a broad pH spectrum (6.2-8.0) and wide water hardness range (70-215 ppm), though stability within these ranges is crucial for its health, particularly during ecdysis (molting).