Checklist: Best Shrimp For Planted Tanks Setup Done Right

Adding freshwater shrimp to your planted tank brings vibrant color, fascinating behavior, and natural cleaning abilities to your aquascaping masterpiece. But to truly succeed, you need the right shrimp species and a setup tailored to their needs. In this comprehensive guide, we present a detailed checklist designed for both beginners and seasoned aquascapers who want their planted tank shrimp setup done right.

Why Shrimp Are Perfect for Planted Aquariums

Shrimp aren’t just eye-catching additions; they are also hardworking members of your tank’s cleanup crew. Their gentle grazing habits help control algae and detritus, promoting a healthier, more balanced ecosystem. Their small sizes minimize plant disruption, making them ideal for lush, heavily planted aquascapes.

Main Benefits of Shrimp in Planted Tanks

Natural algae control: Most shrimp species feed on soft algae, keeping your aquascape clean.
Minimal bioload: They don’t overwhelm filtration or nutrients like larger tank mates.
Captivating behaviors: Watching shrimp forage, molt, and interact is endlessly rewarding.
Color variety: Shrimp come in many hues to complement your plants and hardscape.

Checklist: Essential Considerations for Keeping Shrimp in Planted Tanks

Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is ideal; larger tanks provide more stable water parameters.
Filtration: Use shrimp-safe filters like sponge or pre-filtered canister intakes to prevent accidental casualties.
Heavily Planted Setup: Provide mosses, fine-leafed plants, and hiding spots for security and foraging.
Water Parameters: Consistent temperature (20-26°C), pH based on species, low to moderate hardness & no ammonia/nitrites.
Substrate: Fine gravel or aquasoil promotes root growth and offers foraging surfaces for shrimp.
Tankmates: Avoid predatory fish; choose peaceful nano species compatible with shrimp.
Acclimation: Drip acclimate new shrimp to prevent shock from water parameter changes.
Feeding: Supplement with shrimp-specific pellets and blanched vegetables, but don’t overfeed.
Regular Maintenance: Consistent water changes and checks for copper (toxic for shrimp!) in fertilizers.

The Best Shrimp Species for Planted Tanks

Selecting the right shrimp makes all the difference for a thriving aquascape. Here are the most popular and beginner-friendly shrimp for planted tanks:

Neocaridina davidi (Cherry Shrimp & Color Variants)

Hardiness: Extremely adaptable; perfect for beginners.
Color Options: Red, blue, yellow, orange, green, and more.
Ideal Water Params: pH 6.5–8.0; Temp 20–26°C.
Notes: Prolific breeders; do best in established aquascapes.

Caridina cf. cantonensis (Crystal Red & Crystal Black Shrimp)

Hardiness: More sensitive; suitable for attentive hobbyists.
Color Options: Striking red/white or black/white bands.
Ideal Water Params: Soft, acidic water (pH 6–6.8); Temp 20–24°C.
Notes: Prefer active substrates; don’t mix with Neocaridina in small tanks.

Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata)

Hardiness: Very robust and effective algae eaters.
Color Options: Translucent with dot/line patterns.
Ideal Water Params: Broad range; pH 6.5–7.5; Temp 20–26°C.
Notes: Larger than other dwarf shrimp; don’t breed in freshwater tanks.

Bamboo Shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis)

Hardiness: Peaceful but require established, well-filtered tanks.
Special Care: Filter feeders; need strong water flow and microparticles to eat.
Ideal Water Params: pH 6.5–7.5; Temp 22–28°C.
Notes: Fascinating to watch but not ideal for nano tanks.

Best Plants & Aquascape Layouts for Shrimp

Create a natural, shelter-rich habitat for your shrimp by including:

Mosses: Java Moss, Christmas Moss—perfect for foraging and baby shrimp shelter.
Fine-leafed plants: Water Sprite, Cabomba, Myriophyllum—offer excellent hiding and grazing surfaces.
Floating plants: Frogbit, Duckweed—dim bright light and offer security to shy shrimp.
Hardscape: Driftwood and cholla wood for biofilm growth and mineral support.

Learn more about the best plants for nano aquariums in our dedicated guide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Shrimp in Planted Tanks

Adding shrimp too soon to immature or cycling tanks.
Ignoring copper content in fertilizers or medication (toxic for shrimp).
Keeping shrimp with aggressive or predatory fish (avoid bettas, cichlids, large tetras, etc.).
Neglecting regular water changes, leading to unstable parameters.
Overfeeding, causing poor water quality and algae outbreaks.

Final Tips for a Thriving Shrimp Community

Monitor water parameters weekly for optimal health.
Observe shrimp often—they’re early stress indicators in your tank.
Read our aquascaping setup checklist for more preparation guides.
Join online communities for tailored advice and sharing photos of your shrimp aquascape!

Conclusion: Build Your Planted Tank Shrimp Paradise

With the right species, careful setup, and a bit of ongoing attention, shrimp will reward you with both beauty and utility in your aquascaped aquarium. Follow this checklist, and you’ll enjoy a low-maintenance, vibrant, and thriving shrimp community garden. Looking for more inspiration or help on your aquascaping journey? Explore our other articles at Aquascaping Academy and take your planted tank to the next level!