Checklist: Best Shrimp For Planted Tanks Setup Done Right

If you’re passionate about aquascaping, adding shrimp to your planted tank can elevate your underwater landscape to a whole new level. Shrimp not only add movement, color, and character but also play a crucial role in tank cleanliness by grazing on algae and detritus. But which shrimp are best for planted aquariums, and how can you ensure their setup is flawless? Use this comprehensive checklist to choose, acclimate, and care for the best shrimp species for your aquascape!

Why Shrimp Are Ideal for Planted Tanks

Aquarium shrimp are beloved by aquascapers for their small size, gentle temperament, and impressive cleaning abilities. They naturally graze on biofilm, algae, and leftover food, helping maintain pristine water and healthy plants. When properly chosen, the right shrimp species will harmonize with your aquascape and even add a splash of living color.

Checklist: Setting Up Your Planted Shrimp Tank

Choose the right shrimp species for your tank and experience level.
Ensure water parameters suit both shrimp and plants.
Prepare a mature, cycled aquarium before adding shrimp.
Select suitable tank mates—avoid aggressive fish.
Provide plenty of hiding spaces with aquatic plants and hardscape.
Add shrimp-friendly substrate and leaf litter for foraging.
Feed a balanced diet in addition to natural grazing options.
Monitor water quality and perform regular maintenance.

The Best Shrimp Species for Planted Aquascapes

Let’s dive into the top choices for shrimp in aquascaping, each with unique benefits and requirements.

1. Neocaridina davidi (Cherry Shrimp)

Ideal for: Beginners and advanced aquascapers.
Colors: Red, yellow, blue, green, orange, and more.
Water Parameters: pH 6.5-8.0, Temp 20-28°C (68-82°F).
Benefits: Hardy, easy to breed, active algae eaters.

Cherry shrimp are the most popular freshwater shrimp for aquascaping thanks to their vivid colors and adaptability. They thrive in planted tanks with plenty of moss, ferns, and driftwood.

2. Caridina cf. cantonensis (Crystal Red and Crystal Black Shrimp)

Ideal for: Intermediate aquascapers.
Colors: Striking red/white or black/white patterns.
Water Parameters: pH 6.0-7.2, Temp 20-25°C (68-77°F), soft water preferred.
Benefits: Attractive coloration, active foragers.

Crystal shrimp are prized for their beautiful patterns and sensitivity to water quality. They need a well-established, clean planted aquarium with stable parameters.

3. Caridina multidentata (Amano Shrimp)

Ideal for: All levels, especially aquascapers battling algae.
Colors: Translucent with faint blue/green hues and spotted lines.
Water Parameters: pH 6.5-7.5, Temp 18-27°C (64-80°F).
Benefits: Expert algae eaters, peaceful, hardy.

Amano shrimp are legendary for their algae-eating prowess and compatibility with most peaceful tank mates, making them ideal for lush, mature planted tanks.

4. Ghost Shrimp (Palaemonetes sp.)

Ideal for: Beginners and educational tanks.
Colors: Nearly transparent, easy to observe behavior.
Water Parameters: pH 6.5-8.0, Temp 20-28°C (68-82°F).
Benefits: Affordable, great for biotope tanks.

Ghost shrimp are an inexpensive and fascinating addition, though they may be less visually striking than other species. They love planted aquascapes with lots of microfauna to graze on.

5. Bamboo Shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis)

Ideal for: Aquascapers looking for unique filter feeders.
Colors: Reddish to brown with white stripes.
Water Parameters: pH 6.5-7.5, Temp 22-28°C (72-82°F).
Benefits: Filter-feeders, peaceful, striking appearance.

Bamboo shrimp add an exotic flair. They prefer tanks with strong water flow and thrive in well-established planted tanks where they can filter-feed micro-particles.

Important Tips for a Successful Planted Shrimp Aquarium

Acclimate Shrimp Carefully

Shrimp are sensitive to sudden water changes. Use the drip acclimation method to gently introduce them into your aquascape and avoid osmotic shock.

Avoid Copper-Based Treatments

Copper is toxic to aquarium shrimp. Always check fertilizers and medications before use in a shrimp tank setup.

Optimal Plant Choices

Choose dense and fine-leafed plants like mosses (see our guide), ferns, and stem plants to offer shrimp cover and foraging grounds. These plants support a healthy breeding environment for shrimp colonies.

Tank Mates Compatibility

Keep shrimp with peaceful fish species like micro-fish and avoid larger or aggressive species that may prey on shrimp.

Regular Water Maintenance

Shrimp thrive in clean, stable environments. Monitor ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and ensure partial water changes to keep the ecosystem healthy.

Conclusion: Create the Perfect Shrimp Planted Tank

Building a thriving shrimp aquascape is rewarding and beneficial for the entire aquarium ecosystem. By following this best shrimp for planted tanks checklist, you can enjoy a colorful, lively, and balanced underwater world. Don’t forget to research each species’ needs and consult our care guides for more in-depth information.

If you’re ready to take your aquascaping skills to the next level, explore our courses and guides for more expert tips and inspiration!