Green Jade Shrimp Care Guide
The Green Jade Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) is one of the most striking freshwater shrimp varieties available to UK aquarists. Known for its rich emerald-green colouration and easy-care nature, it has become increasingly popular among shrimp keepers, aquascapers, and planted aquarium enthusiasts.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Green Jade Shrimp care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, breeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Green Jade Shrimp
Green Jade Shrimp are a selectively bred colour morph of Neocaridina davidi, the same species as Cherry Shrimp, Blue Dream Shrimp, and Yellow Shrimp.
Their vibrant green coloration can range from pale moss-green to deep emerald shades, making them a unique addition to planted aquariums.
Neocaridina davidi
2-3 cm
Selectively bred from shrimp native to Taiwan
20L (5gal)
1-2 years
Peaceful
18-28°C
Algae, biofilm, shrimp foods, vegetables
6.5-8.0
£3-£12+ per shrimp depending on grade
How Many Green Jade Shrimp Should You Keep?
Green Jade Shrimp are social and thrive in colonies.
- A minimum group of 10 is recommended
- Larger colonies encourage natural behaviour and breeding
- Well-established planted tanks support healthier populations
Keeping too few shrimp can result in:
- Reduced breeding success
- Less visible activity
- Increased vulnerability to fish predation
Most shrimp keepers find colonies naturally expand over time.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Green Jade Shrimp
Providing stable conditions is the key to success with Green Jade Shrimp.
- Tank Setup: Mature planted aquarium with plenty of surfaces for grazing
- Substrate: Fine gravel, sand, or shrimp-specific substrate
- Plants & Decor: Mosses, driftwood, rocks, floating plants, and dense planting
- Water Conditions: Stable freshwater with adequate minerals
- Filtration & Flow: Gentle filtration with shrimp-safe intakes
- Lighting: Moderate lighting to encourage algae and biofilm growth
Consistency is often more important than chasing exact water parameters.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Green Jade Shrimp are peaceful and suitable for carefully planned community aquariums.
- Good Tankmates: ember tetras, chili rasboras, celestial pearl danios, pygmy corydoras, otocinclus, and peaceful snails
- Avoid: cichlids, larger barbs, puffers, bettas, and predatory fish
Even peaceful fish may prey on baby shrimp.
Dense planting helps improve shrimplet survival rates.
Are Green Jade Shrimp Easy to Care For?
Green Jade Shrimp are easy to care for and ideal for beginners.
They require:
- Stable water parameters
- Mature aquariums
- Adequate minerals for moulting
- Protection from predators
Like other Neocaridina shrimp, they are among the easiest freshwater shrimp species to keep.
Green Jade Shrimp Price in the UK
In the UK, Green Jade Shrimp typically cost between £3-£12+ each.
Prices vary depending on:
- Colour intensity and consistency
- Size and age
- Breeding quality
- Availability
Deep emerald-green specimens usually command premium prices.
Where to Buy Green Jade Shrimp in the UK
Green Jade Shrimp are available from specialist shrimp breeders, aquarium shops, and hobbyist keepers.
Sourcing shrimp locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to inspect colour quality
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect aquarists who want to buy, sell, or rehome aquatic livestock safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Green Jade Shrimp?
Yes - Green Jade Shrimp are commonly bred and sold by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises transport stress
- Avoids shipping risks
- Connects you with local shrimp keepers
TankMate UK allows you to list livestock quickly and find local buyers.
Breeding Green Jade Shrimp
Green Jade Shrimp breed readily in stable aquariums.
Key Tips
- Maintain stable water conditions
- Provide mosses and dense cover
- Avoid fish that prey on shrimplets
- Ensure a healthy colony with both males and females
Females carry eggs beneath their abdomen for approximately 3-4 weeks before releasing fully formed miniature shrimp.
No special breeding setup is usually required.
Common Problems with Green Jade Shrimp
Failed moults, often caused by:
- Low mineral levels
- Rapid water parameter changes
- Poor water quality
Faded colouration, linked to:
- Stress
- Poor genetics
- Inadequate nutrition
Population decline, caused by:
- Fish predation
- Copper contamination
- Unstable conditions
Why Green Jade Shrimp Are So Popular
- Unique emerald-green colouration
- Excellent algae and biofilm grazers
- Easy to breed and maintain
- Perfect for planted aquariums
- Suitable for beginners and experts alike
When kept correctly, Green Jade Shrimp provide colour, activity, and useful cleaning behaviour in freshwater aquariums.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they have the same care requirements as Cherry Shrimp and other Neocaridina varieties.
Yes, they graze algae, biofilm, and leftover food throughout the aquarium.
At least 10, though larger colonies are recommended.
They can thrive in tanks as small as 20 litres, provided water quality remains stable.
Looking to Buy or Sell Green Jade Shrimp Locally?
TankMate UK connects aquarists who want to buy, sell, or rehome aquatic livestock safely within their local area.
Whether you're starting a colourful shrimp colony or looking to pass surplus shrimp on to new homes, you can:
- Browse livestock available near you
- List your own in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right additions for your aquarium.