Difference between Neocaridina and Caridina Shrimps
Freshwater shrimp are a type of invertebrate that are native to a variety of freshwater habitats around the world. They are popular among aquarists due to their attractive appearance, ease of care, and ability to help keep the aquarium clean by consuming algae and other detritus. There are many different species of freshwater shrimp, including both Caridina and Neocaridina varieties. Freshwater shrimp are relatively easy to care for, as long as their basic needs are met. They require a consistent environment with stable water parameters and a suitable diet, and should be kept in a heavily planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. Freshwater shrimp are also known to breed readily in the aquarium, and it is not uncommon for a single female to produce several hundred offspring in a single year.
Difference between Neocaridina and Caridina shrimps
Caridina and Neocaridina are two genera of freshwater shrimp that are popular among aquarists. Here are a few differences between the two:
Appearance
Caridina shrimp are generally smaller and more delicate in appearance than Neocaridina shrimp. They also tend to have more muted colours, with shades of brown, green, and blue being common. Neocaridina shrimp, on the other hand, are known for their bright and colourful appearance, with shades of red, orange, yellow, and green being common.
Care requirements
Both Caridina and Neocaridina shrimp are sensitive to water quality and require a consistent environment to thrive. Caridina Shrimps require pH scale between 5.5 – 6.5, while Neocaridina will strive in pH scale between 6.5 – 8. However, Neocaridina shrimp are generally considered to be easier to care for due to their tolerance for a wider range of water conditions. Neocaridina shrimps are also more forgiving of fluctuations in water quality, and are less likely to be affected by changes in pH and hardness.
Diet
Both Caridina and Neocaridina shrimp are omnivorous and will feed on a variety of foods including algae, detritus, and small aquatic plants. In the aquarium, they can be fed a variety of foods including blanched vegetables, sinking pellets, and small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia.
Breeding
Both Caridina and Neocaridina shrimp are known to breed readily in the aquarium. However, Neocaridina shrimp are known to be more prolific breeders, and it is not uncommon for a single female to produce several hundred offspring in a single year. You can learn more about how to breed the shrimps here.
