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About the Blue Steel Orange Shrimp
The Blue Steel Orange Shrimp is a rare and striking selectively bred variety of Neocaridina davidi, admired for its unique blend of metallic steel-blue and vibrant orange colouration. Depending on the individual, these shrimp display an iridescent blue body with contrasting orange head, tail, or saddle, creating an eye-catching appearance unlike any other Neocaridina variety.
Highly prized by shrimp enthusiasts and aquascapers, Blue Steel Orange Shrimp are constantly active, spending their day grazing on algae, biofilm, and organic matter from plants, driftwood, rocks, and substrate. Their unusual colouration stands out beautifully against lush green plants and dark aquascaping materials, making them a true feature species in planted aquariums.
Blue Steel Orange Shrimp thrive in mature aquariums with mosses, fine-leaved plants, driftwood, leaf litter, and plenty of hiding places. Stable water conditions and a well-established aquarium rich in biofilm are essential for successful moulting and breeding. They are excellent companions for peaceful nano fish such as 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 vibrant colouration, healthy moulting, and successful breeding.
Rare, colourful, and easy to care for, the Blue Steel Orange Shrimp is an exceptional addition to planted aquariums and dedicated shrimp colonies.
Quick Care Guide
Scientific Name
Neocaridina davidi
Common Name
Blue Steel Orange 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 Blue Steel Orange Shrimp good for beginners?
Yes. Like most Neocaridina davidi varieties, they are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced shrimp keepers.
What do Blue Steel Orange Shrimp eat?
They feed on biofilm, algae, premium shrimp pellets, algae wafers, spirulina, blanched vegetables, Indian Almond Leaves, and occasional protein-rich foods.
Can Blue Steel Orange 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 Blue Steel Orange Shrimp breed easily?
Yes. They breed readily in freshwater aquariums with stable water conditions. Females carry eggs beneath their abdomen until fully formed juvenile shrimp hatch.
Will Blue Steel Orange Shrimp always breed true?
Not always. Depending on the breeding line, offspring may display varying shades of blue, orange, brown, or mixed colour patterns. Selective breeding is often required to maintain the desired Blue Steel Orange appearance.
Common Mistakes
Adding them to immature aquariums
Blue Steel Orange Shrimp rely heavily on natural biofilm. Always introduce them to a mature, fully cycled aquarium.
Sudden water parameter changes
Rapid changes in pH, temperature, or hardness can cause stress and moulting issues. Acclimate shrimp slowly.
Keeping them with predatory fish
Many fish will eat shrimp or shrimplets. Choose peaceful nano species for the highest survival rates.
Not providing enough hiding places
Mosses, shrimp caves, driftwood, and dense planting provide essential shelter during moulting and improve juvenile survival.
Mixing different Neocaridina colour varieties
Different colour morphs of Neocaridina davidi will interbreed. Over successive generations, this often results in wild-type brown offspring, reducing the intensity of the original colour lines.
