The Grade AA Red Cherry Shrimp is a popular color variation of the wild Neocaridina heteropoda shrimp species. This color variety was first bred in Germany, and it became available in the US in the late 1990s. These shrimp have a lifespan of 1-2 years, and when fully grown, they reach a size of 1. 75 inches. These are available for purchase at a size of 0. 75-1 inch.
The Red Cherry Shrimp is the red color variation of the wild Neocaridina heteropoda. This color variation was first bred in Germany. In the late 1990s, it began to show up in the United States.
Cherry shrimp are one of the most popular freshwater shrimp kept in home aquariums. Their bright red coloration and peaceful nature make them an excellent beginner shrimp. But where can you find high-quality cherry shrimp for sale? In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best places to buy cherry shrimp.
Overview of Cherry Shrimp
Cherry shrimp, also known as red cherry shrimp or RCS, are a dwarf freshwater shrimp species scientifically known as Neocaridina davidi They are native to Taiwan and mainland China.
These shrimp grow to around 1-2 inches in size and can live 1-2 years with proper care They come in several color variations but are most prized for their brilliant red hues
Cherry shrimp thrive in planted aquariums and make excellent tank cleaners that will pick at algae and debris. They can be kept with small community fish as well as other peaceful shrimp and snail species.
Overall, cherry shrimp are a perfect choice for nano tanks and those new to the shrimp-keeping hobby. Their affordability and hardy nature make them a staple for beginner shrimp breeders.
Where to Buy Cherry Shrimp
Now that you know a bit about cherry shrimp, where are the best places to buy them? Here are the top 10 spots to find healthy, high-quality cherry shrimp for sale:
1. Aquatic Arts
Aquatic Arts is an online-only aquarium livestock store based in California. They offer premium cherry shrimp for sale that are quarantined and treated for parasites before shipping. Their shrimp selection includes both standard and higher grade cherry shrimp.
2. Flip Aquatics
Flip Aquatics is another popular online retailer of aquarium shrimp and fish. Their cherry shrimp are locally bred in Wisconsin and available in starter packs for those new to shrimp keeping. They guarantee live arrival on all shipments.
3. Your Local Fish Store (LFS)
Check with local independently-owned aquarium shops to see what types of cherry shrimp they have available. Picking up shrimp locally saves on shipping costs. It also allows you to select the specific shrimp you want rather than receiving a random scoop.
4. r/AquaSwap
This active Reddit community connects aquatic hobbyists looking to buy, sell, or trade fish, plants, shrimp and supplies. Redditors often offer cherry shrimp culled from their breeding projects at very reasonable prices.
5. eBay
eBay sellers market cherry shrimp of varying grades and prices. Focus on vendors with excellent ratings and satisfaction guarantees when purchasing shrimp through eBay.
6. Etsy
Craft marketplace Etsy surprisingly has numerous shrimp enthusiasts selling homebred cherry shrimp. Read shop reviews closely when buying through Etsy sellers.
7. Craigslist
Check the pets or aquarium sections of Craigslist to see if anyone in your area is rehoming or selling cherry shrimp. Arrange to pick up locally so you can inspect shrimp before purchasing.
8. Facebook Marketplace
Search for cherry shrimp on Facebook Marketplace to find hobbyists in your region selling shrimp. Joining local aquarium club Facebook groups can also connect you with potential shrimp sellers.
9. Shrimp Clubs and Associations
Connecting with your local shrimp club or national associations like the Shrimp Keepers Association can help you network with experienced shrimp breeders who sell shrimp.
10. Aquarium Shrimp Forums
Post on forums like ShrimpSpot, Shrimp Corner, and Planet Inverts to find members offering cherry shrimp for sale. You may even find rare color lines from respected breeders.
Buying Your Cherry Shrimp
Once you’ve selected a preferred cherry shrimp vendor, here are some tips for choosing your shrimp:
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Pick lively, active shrimp swimming freely in the tank. Avoid lethargic or damaged specimens.
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Look for intact antennae and legs to indicate good health.
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Select shrimp with vibrant, deep red coloration without clouding or flaws.
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Buy juvenile/young adult shrimp around 0.5 inches in size for best acclimation and survival.
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Request the seller include some of the original tank water to reduce shock during transport.
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Let newly purchased shrimp gradually acclimate to your tank over a few hours before release.
Cherry shrimp are universally loved for their bright colors and tank cleaning talents. Just be sure to purchase them from a reputable source that ethically produces these fantastic dwarf shrimp. The shops and sites listed above are great options for finding the highest quality cherry shrimp to introduce into your freshwater aquarium.
How many Red Cherry Shrimp can I keep per gallon?
Make sure you start with at least a 5-gallon tank because you can keep almost an infinite number of Red Cherry shrimp per gallon of water. Stay on top of maintenance, and the colony should balance itself.
How big do Red Cherry Shrimp get?
The females can reach up to around 1.6″/4 cm, while the males stay a bit smaller.