How to set up a Neocaridina shrimps tank to breed thousands

How to Set Up a Neocaridina Shrimp Tank (HNshrimp Method)

Setting up a successful Neocaridina shrimp tank means creating a stable environment with healthy bacterial colonies, clean water, and balanced minerals. The following guide outlines the exact process used by HNshrimp to breed thousands of healthy Neocaridina shrimp.

What You’ll Need:

  • Bacteria powder (e.g., x2 Shrimp brand) to seed the substrate
  • Nitrifying bacteria (HNshrimp uses Seachem Stability)
  • GH/KH salt for remineralizing RO water
  • RO water (reverse osmosis) for optimal purity
  • Inert substrate: sand, lava rock, onyx sand, or similar (no buffering)
  • Aquarium light and filter (sponge, HOB, or canister)
  • Air pump (if using a sponge filter)
  • TDS meter for measuring water hardness

Step-by-Step Setup Timeline

Day 1: Establish the Foundation

  1. Add Inert Substrate: Use an inactive substrate to avoid pH crashes.
  2. Sprinkle Bacteria Powder: Apply evenly to support waste breakdown and biofilm development.
  3. Add Live Plants: Early planting helps establish balance and provides hiding spots for shrimp.
  4. Fill with Pure RO Water: Start with clean, mineral-free water to ensure full control over water chemistry.
  5. Add Nitrifying Bacteria: Dose per product instructions (you can be generous in the beginning).
  6. Turn On Filter: Use a pre-filter sponge to prevent shrimp from being sucked in.
  7. Continue Adding Nitrifying Bacteria: Dose a capful every other day for 15 days.

Day 8: Introduce Light

Turn on your aquarium light. This helps stimulate the growth of biofilm and algae—natural food sources for Neocaridina shrimp. Delaying the light until Day 8 prevents it from outcompeting the early-stage bacteria.

Day 21: Prepare for Shrimp

  1. Check for Biofilm and Algae: Some growth is normal and even beneficial for shrimp.
  2. Drain 90% of the Water: This resets excess nutrients while keeping the established bacteria.
  3. Add Additional Plants (Optional): Now is a good time to plant more if desired.
  4. Refill with RO Water: Fresh, pure water supports mineral balancing.
  5. Remineralize: Add GH/KH salts to reach 150–200 TDS or a GH between 5.5–7.
  6. Add Nutrients (Optional): SL-Aqua shrimp vitamins may be added to support molting and breeding.
  7. Test Water Parameters: Ensure ammonia is near 0 before introducing livestock.
  8. Acclimate and Add Shrimp: Slowly drip-acclimate shrimp to match tank conditions, then enjoy your new colony!

Final Thoughts

By following this method, HNshrimp has successfully raised thousands of thriving Neocaridina shrimp. This setup is ideal for both beginners and experienced shrimp breeders looking to start with a clean and controlled environment. Proper cycling, bacterial seeding, and remineralization are the keys to success in shrimp keeping.

Back to blog