Green jade shrimp - Neocaridina davidi

Green Jade Shrimp are a vibrant and visually appealing variety of freshwater shrimp, known for their striking green coloration. They are a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to their hardy nature and ability to thrive in a range of conditions.

Overview

• Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi var. "Green Jade"
• Common Names: Green Jade Shrimp, Green Shrimp
• Origin: Green Jade Shrimp are selectively bred from the wild-type Neocaridina shrimp, which are native to Taiwan. The green coloration is a result of selective breeding.
• Size: Adult Green Jade Shrimp typically reach about 2.5-3.5 cm (1-1.4 inches) in length.

Appearance

• Coloration: The defining characteristic of Green Jade Shrimp is their deep green color, which can range from a vibrant lime green to a darker, more jade-like hue. The intensity of the color can vary between individuals and can be influenced by factors such as diet, lighting, and genetics.
• Body Shape: Like other Neocaridina shrimp, Green Jade Shrimp have a curved, elongated body with long antennae and a fan-like tail. They have six walking legs and five swimming legs (pleopods), which they use to navigate their environment.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A small group of Green Jade Shrimp can be kept in tanks as small as 10 gallons, but larger tanks are recommended for better stability and space for the shrimp to roam and breed.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 20-26°C (68-79°F)
  • pH: 6.5-7.5
  • Hardness: 4-8 dGH
• Substrate: A dark substrate is often preferred as it provides a good contrast to the shrimp's green coloration, making them stand out more in the aquarium. Additionally, fine substrates like sand or smooth gravel are gentle on the shrimp's delicate body.
• Aquascaping: Green Jade Shrimp thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Plants like Java Moss, Anubias, and floating plants provide shelter and surfaces for biofilm growth, which shrimp love to graze on. Driftwood and rocks also offer additional hiding places and grazing surfaces.

Diet

• Feeding: Green Jade Shrimp are omnivores and will feed on algae, biofilm, decaying plant matter, and detritus. In a well-established tank, they can find plenty of food on their own, but they should also be supplemented with high-quality shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables (such as zucchini or spinach), and occasional protein-rich foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Behavior: Green Jade Shrimp are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them ideal inhabitants for a community tank. They are active scavengers and spend much of their time grazing on biofilm and algae.
• Compatibility: They are best kept with other small, non-aggressive fish or invertebrates. Ideal tankmates include small tetras, rasboras, and other peaceful shrimp varieties. It’s important to avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish that might see them as food.

Breeding

• Breeding: Like other Neocaridina shrimp, Green Jade Shrimp are relatively easy to breed. They breed in freshwater without any special requirements. The female will carry the fertilized eggs under her tail (in the pleopods) until they hatch into miniature versions of the adults. A stable environment with plenty of hiding spots will encourage successful breeding.