Blue Dream Shrimp: A Comprehensive Guide

Blue Dream Shrimp, also known as Neocaridina davidi var. Blue Dream, is a popular freshwater shrimp species among aquarium enthusiasts. This shrimp species is known for its striking blue coloration and ease of care, making it a great addition to any aquarium. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on Blue Dream Shrimp, including their origin, appearance, behavior, tank requirements, diet, breeding, and more.

Origin of Blue Dream Shrimp

Blue Dream Shrimp is a selectively bred variant of the popular aquarium shrimp species, Neocaridina davidi. The species is native to Taiwan and parts of China, where it inhabits freshwater streams and rivers. Blue Dream Shrimp was first bred in Germany in the early 2000s by crossing different color variants of Neocaridina davidi. The result was a shrimp with a striking blue coloration that quickly gained popularity among aquarium enthusiasts.

Appearance of Blue Dream Shrimp

Blue Dream Shrimp is a small freshwater shrimp species that typically grows up to 1.5 inches in length. The shrimp has a translucent body with a bright blue coloration that ranges from light blue to dark blue. The intensity of the blue coloration can vary depending on the shrimp’s age, diet, and environment. Blue Dream Shrimp also has a pair of long antennae and five pairs of legs that are used for movement and feeding.

Sexual Dimorphism

Blue Dream Shrimp exhibits sexual dimorphism, which means that males and females have different physical characteristics. Male Blue Dream Shrimp are generally smaller and have a more slender body compared to females. They also have a more pronounced curve in their abdomen, which is used to transfer sperm to the female during mating. Female Blue Dream Shrimp, on the other hand, have a larger and rounder body, especially when they are carrying eggs.

Behavior of Blue Dream Shrimp

Blue Dream Shrimp is a peaceful and social species that can be kept in groups in a community aquarium. They are active during the day and spend most of their time scavenging for food and exploring their environment. Blue Dream Shrimp is also known for their ability to climb on plants and decorations, which adds to their charm and entertainment value. They are generally non-aggressive and can coexist with other peaceful fish and invertebrates.

Feeding Behavior

Blue Dream Shrimp is an omnivorous species that feeds on a variety of food sources. In the wild, they feed on algae, biofilm, and small aquatic organisms. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of commercial shrimp pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms. It is important to provide a balanced diet to ensure the shrimp’s health and vitality.

Tank Requirements for Blue Dream Shrimp

Blue Dream Shrimp is a hardy species that can adapt to a wide range of water parameters. However, to ensure their optimal health and coloration, it is recommended to provide them with a suitable environment. Here are some tank requirements for Blue Dream Shrimp:

Tank Size

Blue Dream Shrimp can be kept in a small aquarium, but a larger tank is recommended for a more stable environment. A minimum tank size of 5 gallons is recommended for a small group of shrimp.

Water Parameters

Blue Dream Shrimp prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The water temperature should be kept between 72°F to 78°F. It is important to maintain stable water parameters to prevent stress and disease in the shrimp.

Substrate and Decorations

Blue Dream Shrimp prefers a substrate of fine sand or gravel that allows them to forage for food and bury themselves. They also appreciate a heavily planted aquarium with live plants such as Java moss, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne. Decorations such as driftwood, rocks, and caves provide hiding places and climbing surfaces for the shrimp.

Breeding Blue Dream Shrimp

Blue Dream Shrimp is a prolific breeder that can reproduce in captivity under the right conditions. Breeding Blue Dream Shrimp is relatively easy and can be a rewarding experience for aquarium enthusiasts. Here are some tips for breeding Blue Dream Shrimp:

Sexing the Shrimp

Before breeding Blue Dream Shrimp, it is important to sex the shrimp to ensure that there are both males and females in the group. Male Blue Dream Shrimp have a more pronounced curve in their abdomen, while female Blue Dream Shrimp have a larger and rounder body, especially when they are carrying eggs.

Providing the Right Environment

To encourage breeding, it is important to provide the right environment for the shrimp. This includes a stable water temperature, suitable water parameters, and a heavily planted aquarium with hiding places and climbing surfaces. Providing a varied diet of high-quality food can also stimulate breeding behavior in the shrimp.

Separating the Female with Eggs

When a female Blue Dream Shrimp is carrying eggs, it is recommended to separate her from the group to prevent other shrimp from eating the eggs. A breeding box or a separate aquarium can be used to house the female until the eggs hatch.

Caring for the Shrimp Fry

Blue Dream Shrimp fry are small and delicate, and require special care to ensure their survival. They can be fed a diet of powdered or liquid fry food, and should be kept in a separate aquarium until they are large enough to join the main group.

Conclusion

Blue Dream Shrimp is a popular freshwater shrimp species that is known for its striking blue coloration and ease of care. They are a great addition to any aquarium and can coexist with other peaceful fish and invertebrates. By providing the right environment and diet, Blue Dream Shrimp can thrive and reproduce in captivity, providing aquarium enthusiasts with a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

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