Black Rose Shrimp

About the Black Rose Shrimp

The Black Rose Shrimp is one of the most elegant and sought-after Neocaridina shrimp varieties, admired for its deep velvet-black colouration and glossy appearance. High-grade specimens display a rich, opaque black body from head to tail, creating a dramatic contrast against vibrant green plants and light-coloured aquascaping materials.

A selectively bred variety of Neocaridina davidi, the Black Rose Shrimp is both hardy and easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced shrimp keepers alike. These active freshwater shrimp spend their day grazing on algae, biofilm, and organic matter found on plants, driftwood, rocks, and substrate, helping to maintain a healthy aquarium ecosystem.

Black Rose Shrimp thrive in mature planted aquariums with mosses, driftwood, botanicals, and plenty of hiding places. Stable water conditions and a well-established aquarium rich in natural biofilm are essential for successful moulting and breeding. Their peaceful temperament makes them ideal for shrimp-only aquariums or community tanks with Ember Tetras, Chili Rasboras, Celestial Pearl Danios, Pygmy Corydoras, Otocinclus, and Blue-eye Rainbowfish.

A varied diet of premium shrimp pellets, algae wafers, spirulina, blanched spinach, zucchini, Indian Almond Leaves, and occasional protein-rich foods such as baby brine shrimp will promote healthy moulting, vibrant colouration, and successful breeding.

Striking, peaceful, and incredibly hardy, the Black Rose Shrimp is a stunning addition to any planted aquarium or dedicated shrimp colony.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Neocaridina davidi

Common Name

Black Rose Shrimp

Origin

Captive-bred colour variety of a species native to Taiwan

Adult Size

2.5–3 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

20 Litres

Temperature

20–26°C

pH

6.5–7.8

Water Hardness

6–12 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

1.5–2 Years

Suitable For

Shrimp aquariums, planted tanks, nano aquariums, and peaceful community aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Black Rose Shrimp good for beginners?

Yes. Black Rose Shrimp are one of the easiest freshwater shrimp to keep and are ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

What do Black Rose Shrimp eat?

They feed on biofilm, algae, premium shrimp pellets, algae wafers, spirulina, blanched vegetables, Indian Almond Leaves, and occasional protein-rich foods.

Can Black Rose Shrimp live with fish?

Yes. They do well with peaceful nano fish such as Ember Tetras, Rasboras, Pygmy Corydoras, Otocinclus, and Blue-eyes. Avoid larger or predatory fish that may prey on shrimp.

Do Black Rose Shrimp breed easily?

Yes. They breed readily in freshwater aquariums with stable water conditions. Females carry eggs beneath their abdomen until fully developed juvenile shrimp hatch.

Can Black Rose Shrimp be kept with other Neocaridina shrimp?

They can, but different Neocaridina colour varieties will interbreed. Over time, this often results in wild-type brown offspring. To preserve the rich black colouration, keep Black Rose Shrimp in their own colony.

Common Mistakes

Mixing colour varieties

Black Rose Shrimp will interbreed with other Neocaridina davidi colour morphs, reducing colour quality over future generations.

Adding them to immature aquariums

Always introduce shrimp to a mature, fully cycled aquarium with established biofilm.

Sudden water parameter changes

Rapid fluctuations in temperature, pH, or hardness can lead to stress and moulting issues. Slow acclimation is essential.

Not providing enough hiding places

Mosses, shrimp caves, driftwood, and dense planting provide essential shelter during moulting and improve juvenile survival.

Overfeeding

Feed small amounts and allow shrimp to graze naturally between feedings. Excess food quickly reduces water quality.