Understanding Blue Dream Shrimp: Classification and Overview

The Blue Dream Shrimp is a popular color variant of Neocaridina davidi, known for its deep blue coloration. As part of the Neocaridina genus, which includes the Red Cherry Shrimp, they are exceptionally hardy and adaptable. This makes them an excellent choice for beginners, as they thrive in various tank setups and help control algae.

A Blue Dream Shrimp, a hardy Neocaridina for aquariums

Blue Dream vs Blue Velvet Shrimp: Essential Differences

When selecting dwarf shrimp, understanding the nuances between blue dream vs blue velvet shrimp is crucial. While both are blue Neocaridina davidi, they have distinct differences in appearance, cost, and care requirements.

Physical Traits: Color, Size, and Distinct Hues of Blue Dream vs Blue Velvet Shrimp

Blue Dream shrimp exhibit a deep, solid royal blue color across their entire body. In contrast, Blue Velvet shrimp display a lighter, more translucent sky-blue, often with varied intensity. While Blue Dreams reach about 1-1.5 inches, Blue Velvets can grow slightly larger, with females reaching up to 2 inches.

Blue Dream shrimp have a deep, solid royal blue hue.

Price Comparison: Blue Dream vs Blue Velvet Shrimp

Market price is a key differentiator between blue dream vs blue velvet shrimp. Blue Dream shrimp are typically more expensive, ranging from $5 to $20 each due to their vibrant, opaque coloration. Blue Velvet shrimp are more affordable, usually priced between $2 and $5 per shrimp.

Water Parameter Preferences and Sensitivity for Blue Dream Shrimp and Blue Velvet Shrimp

Both shrimp thrive in stable conditions with a pH of 6.4-8.0 and temperatures of 68-82° F (20-28° C). However, Blue Dream shrimp often prefer harder water with higher mineral content. Conversely, Blue Velvet shrimp can be more sensitive to fluctuations, requiring stricter monitoring. For both varieties, stability is key.

Breeding Considerations: Potential Challenges When Mixing Blue Dream and Blue Velvet Shrimp

Mixing Blue Dream and Blue Velvet shrimp is not recommended. Cross-breeding often results in offspring with "wild type" (clear or brown) coloration, losing the vibrant blue hues. To maintain genetic purity and prevent stress within the colony, it is best to keep these varieties in separate tanks.

Blue Dream vs. Blue Velvet Shrimp: A Detailed Comparison

For aquarists looking to add a splash of blue to their tanks, both Blue Dream and Blue Velvet shrimp are excellent choices. However, they have key differences that are important to consider. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide which is the right fit for your aquarium.

How to Select Healthy Blue Dream Shrimp or Blue Velvet Shrimp

When choosing blue dream vs blue velvet shrimp, selecting healthy individuals is crucial. Look for these signs of good health:

• Activity: Shrimp should be actively moving and foraging.

• Coloration: Colors should be vibrant and consistent for their type.

• Exoskeleton: Shells must be intact, with no damage or fungal growth.

• Environment: The source tank should be clean with stable water.

A healthy shrimp will have a clean, intact exoskeleton.

Setting Up an Ideal Aquarium for Blue Dream Shrimp

A well-prepared aquarium caters to the specific needs of your Blue Dream Shrimp, promoting optimal growth, coloration, and breeding. This section outlines the essential components for creating an ideal habitat.

Choosing the Right Tank Size for Blue Dream Shrimp

A 10-gallon tank is the minimum recommendation, but larger tanks like a 20-gallon provide greater water stability. A larger volume dilutes toxins more effectively, making maintenance easier and supporting a healthier colony.

Selecting the Best Filtration System for Blue Dream Shrimp

Sponge filters are highly recommended for their gentle flow and safety for shrimplets. Hang-on-back (HOB) filters are also suitable if equipped with a pre-filter sponge to prevent shrimp from being drawn in. A low flow rate is essential to avoid stressing them.

The Role and Benefits of Air Pumps in a Blue Dream Shrimp Tank

While optional, air pumps enhance water oxygenation, especially in larger or heavily planted tanks. An air pump is required to operate a sponge filter. Ensure the air pump produces a gentle flow to maintain a calm environment.

Essential Lighting Requirements for Blue Dream Shrimp Aquariums

Blue Dream Shrimp do not require intense lighting, but aquatic plants do. Adjustable LED lights allow you to control intensity, prevent excess algae, and meet plant needs. A lighting period of 6-8 hours daily is ideal for most setups.

Adjustable LED lights are ideal for shrimp.

Ideal Substrate (Shrimp Soil) for Blue Dream Shrimp Health

Specialized shrimp soils help maintain stable water chemistry by buffering the pH to a slightly acidic level. This supports both robust plant growth and optimal breeding conditions for blue dream shrimp.

Understanding the Importance of Shrimp Salt for Neocaridina

Shrimp salt is essential for remineralizing RO/DI water to replicate the natural habitat of Neocaridina. These minerals are vital for maintaining stable Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), which supports proper health and molting cycles.

Utilizing Essential Water Test Kits (GH/KH) for Shrimp Keeping

High-quality GH/KH test kits are non-negotiable for monitoring water hardness. For Blue Dream Shrimp, aim for a GH of 6-8 dGH and a KH of 0-2 dKH to ensure proper exoskeleton development, especially during molting.

Regularly test your aquarium water's GH and KH levels.

The Importance of TDS Pens for Monitoring Water Quality

A TDS pen provides a quick measurement of dissolved solids (salts, minerals) in the water. Maintaining a TDS level between 150-300 ppm ensures a balanced mineral content essential for your blue dream shrimp.

Securing Your Aquarium: The Necessity of an Aquarium Lid

Although Blue Dream Shrimp rarely jump, a secure lid is essential to prevent accidental escapes caused by stress or sudden environmental changes. A lid also reduces evaporation and helps maintain stable water temperatures.

Covering your tank helps maintain stable temperatures. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Blue Dream Shrimp co-exist with Betta fish?

No, housing them together is not recommended. Bettas are predators and will likely eat or harm the shrimp. A species-only tank is the safest option.

How many Blue Dream Shrimp can live per gallon?

You can safely keep 5-10 shrimp per gallon. However, starting with a 10-gallon tank or larger is ideal for maintaining water stability and allowing the colony to grow.

How fast do Blue Dream Shrimp reproduce?

Under optimal conditions, they are prolific breeders. Females can produce a new batch of 30-50 offspring every 30-45 days after reaching sexual maturity at around 2-3 months of age.

Which is easier to care for, blue velvet shrimp vs blue dream for beginners?

Blue Dream Shrimp are generally considered easier for beginners. They are more adaptable and less sensitive to minor water parameter fluctuations compared to Blue Velvet shrimp.

What is the lifespan of Blue Dream Shrimp?

The typical lifespan for a Blue Dream Shrimp is 1 to 2 years. Longevity is directly influenced by stable water conditions, proper diet, and a stress-free environment.

The choice between blue dream vs blue velvet shrimp comes down to personal preference. Blue Dreams offer a deep, solid blue at a higher price, while Blue Velvets have a lighter, translucent blue and are more budget-friendly. Both are hardy, though Blue Velvets can be more sensitive to water changes. Betta USA Aquatic offers healthy, high-quality shrimp to help you start your colony.

Read more:

• The Beauty of Betta Fish: Why They’re Called the “Jewel of the Aquarium”

• Guppy Fish: Small but Colorful Stars