Description
Species Profile
The Sunkist Orange Shrimp is a vivid color variant of the Neocaridina family prized for its bright, citrus-like coloration. Originally developed through the selective breeding of the Red Cherry and Chocolate lines, the Sunkist Orange has become a very stable and popular variety. These freshwater shrimp display a range of orange tones, from a warm yellow-orange to a deep, fiery red-orange. Their solid, opaque color makes them pop brilliantly against green plants and dark aquarium backgrounds.
As with most freshwater shrimp in the Neocaridina genus, Sunkist Oranges are incredibly resilient and adaptable. They are tolerant of a wide range of water parameters and can thrive in both soft and hard water environments. This versatility makes them an excellent choice for a community tank.
**Note: All livestock orders will come carefully packaged with solid wall Styrofoam insulation and shipped via 1-day shipping only. No additional insulation is needed for your livestock.
Key Features & Notes
Tank-raised specimens showcasing bright, solid yellow-orange to deep tangerine pigmentation.
Hardy, beginner-friendly Neocaridina variety that adapts easily to standard tap water conditions.
Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
Peaceful, social behavior for community aquariums and nano setups.
Eager and prolific breeders that quickly establish vibrant, self-sustaining colonies.
Care Specifications
Maintain clean, well-filtered water with stable GH and KH levels to ensure problem-free molting cycles.
Keep water parameters strictly free of copper-based medications or heavy metals.
Supplement their diet with plant-based shrimp pellets, spirulina, and blanched vegetables to ensure proper minerals for molting when natural algae is low.
Provide textured hardscape like lava rock or mosses to maximize surface area for beneficial biofilm growth and shrimplet shelter.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to maintain stable parameters to ensure a healthy, thriving colony!
Attribute
Specification
Scientific Name
Neocaridina davidi “Orange”
Common Name(s)
Sunkist Orange Shrimp, Orange Sakura Shrimp, Orange Shrimp
Care Difficulty
Easy
Adult Size
1.25″ (3.0 cm)
Diet
Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Scavenger
Minimum Tank Size
5 Gallons
Temperature Range
65°F–84°F (18°C–29°C)
pH Range
7.0–7.5
General Hardness (GH)
4–8 dGH
Carbonate Hardness (KH)
3–15 dKH
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
200–300 ppm
Lifespan
1–2 Years
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I properly acclimate my new freshwater shrimp to prevent shock?
Dwarf shrimp are sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters and total dissolved solids (TDS). Always drip acclimate new arrivals over 1 to 2 hours before releasing them into your tank. Follow our step-by-step tutorial in 7 Easy Steps to Drip Acclimate Shrimp and Fish for the perfect drip rate setup.
2. What substrate is best for keeping dwarf shrimp healthy?
It depends on the species! Neocaridina species like Sunkist Orange Shrimp thrive in inert substrates like gravel, sand, or dark volcanic soil, while Caridina species prefer active aquasoils that buffer pH down. Learn how to select the right foundation for your aquarium shrimp in our Best Substrate for Shrimp Guide.
3. How do I get my colony to start breeding?
As long as water parameters remain stable, temperatures stay in the low 70s, and adequate food is present, dwarf shrimp will breed naturally. To maximize baby shrimplet survival rates and learn how to support berried females, read our complete guide on How to Breed Freshwater Shrimp.
4. Are dwarf shrimp easy to care for if I am a beginner?
Yes, Neocaridina species like Sunkist Orange Shrimp are exceptionally hardy, adaptable to standard tap water conditions, and ideal for beginners. Get a complete overview of parameters, diet, and setup requirements in our Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp Care Guide.
