Different Names For Shrimp – A Complete Guide To Species, Varieties

Have you ever walked into a local fish store and felt completely overwhelmed by the labels on the tanks? You are not alone; many hobbyists find that the different names for shrimp can be incredibly confusing when first starting out.

Whether you are looking for a hardy algae eater or a vibrant splash of color for your aquascape, understanding these names is the first step to success. In this guide, I will help you decode the jargon so you can buy with confidence and provide the best care for your new aquatic friends.

We will explore scientific nomenclature, common trade names, and even the culinary terms that often cross over into the hobby. By the end of this article, you will be an expert at identifying exactly what species is swimming in your tank.

Why There Are So Many Different Names for Shrimp

The world of crustacean taxonomy is constantly evolving, which is the primary reason we see such a variety of labels in the hobby. Scientists often reclassify species based on new DNA evidence, leading to name changes that take years to filter down to local shops.

Furthermore, the aquarium trade loves to use “marketing names” to make specific color strains sound more appealing. A “Blue Dream” shrimp and a “Blue Velvet” shrimp might actually be the same species, but their names suggest a different level of quality or intensity.

Understanding the different names for shrimp helps you avoid overpaying for common species and ensures you don’t accidentally mix species that might interbreed. It is all about protecting your investment and maintaining the genetic purity of your colonies.

Scientific vs. Common Names: The Basics

In the aquarium hobby, we generally deal with two main groups: Neocaridina and Caridina. While they might look similar to the untrained eye, they have very different requirements and naming conventions.

The Neocaridina Genus

These are the “beginner-friendly” shrimp that most hobbyists start with. The most common species is Neocaridina davidi, which has been selectively bred into a rainbow of colors.

When you hear names like Cherry Shrimp, Yellow Golden Back, or Orange Sunkist, you are usually looking at Neocaridina davidi. They are hardy, adaptable, and perfect for those just starting their “Aquifarm” journey.

The Caridina Genus

Caridina species are often more sensitive and require specific water parameters, such as active substrates and RO/DI water. This group includes the famous Crystal Red Shrimp (Caridina logemanni) and the Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata).

The naming here gets tricky because many Caridina are hybrids. Names like Taiwan Bee, Pinto, and Shadow Bee refer to specific genetic lines rather than distinct species found in the wild.

Popular Aquarium Species and Their Aliases

To help you navigate your next purchase, let’s break down some of the most popular shrimp and the various names you might encounter in the trade.

The Amano Shrimp

The Amano Shrimp is perhaps the most famous algae eater in the world, popularized by the legendary Takashi Amano. However, you might see it labeled as the Yamato Shrimp, Japanese Marsh Shrimp, or even just “Algae Eating Shrimp.”

Scientifically, it was known as Caridina japonica for decades before being renamed to Caridina multidentata. If you see any of these names, rest assured you are getting the same tireless worker for your planted tank.

Ghost Shrimp vs. Glass Shrimp

These are often sold as “feeder shrimp,” but they make fascinating pets in their own right. The most common scientific name is Palaemonetes paludosus, but they are almost universally called Ghost Shrimp due to their transparent bodies.

Be careful, though; sometimes the name “Glass Shrimp” is used for various transparent species, including some that grow quite large and may become aggressive toward small fish. Always look for the tell-tale orange bands on the antennae to confirm you have the true North American Ghost Shrimp.

Bamboo Shrimp and Their Filter-Feeding Cousins

If you see a large shrimp fanning the water with its hands, you are looking at a Bamboo Shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis). Because of their unique look, they carry many different names for shrimp in the trade, such as Wood Shrimp, Singapore Flower Shrimp, or Fan Shrimp.

These are peaceful giants that require a steady water current to feed. They are a “must-have” for intermediate keepers who want something truly unique in their display tanks.

Deciphering the “Prawn” vs. “Shrimp” Debate

One of the most common questions I get from new hobbyists is: “What is the difference between a shrimp and a prawn?” In the aquarium world, we often use the terms interchangeably, but there are biological and culinary distinctions.

Biological Differences

Biologically, prawns and shrimp belong to different suborders. Prawns (Dendrobranchiata) have a different gill structure and their second segment overlaps the third, whereas shrimp (Pleocyemata) have a second segment that overlaps both the first and third.

In the hobby, “prawn” is often used to describe larger, more aggressive freshwater species like the Macrobrachium genus. If you see a “Long Arm Prawn” in a shop, keep in mind that it might not be the peaceful community member you are looking for!

Culinary Overlap

In many parts of the world, especially the UK and Australia, “prawn” is the standard term for almost all swimming crustaceans, regardless of size. In the US, “shrimp” is more common. This regional linguistic difference is why you might see different names for shrimp depending on where your favorite aquarium blogger is from.

Color Grading and Trade Names

For many enthusiasts, the name of the shrimp is tied directly to its color quality. This is especially true for Neocaridina and Crystal varieties. Understanding these “grades” will help you understand why one “Red Shrimp” costs $2 while another costs $20.

Neocaridina Grading (The Cherry Scale)

• Cherry Shrimp: Light red, mostly transparent.
• Sakura Shrimp: Mostly red, but with some clear patches on the legs or body.
• Fire Red: Solid red body, but the legs might still be translucent.
• Painted Fire Red: Deep, opaque red throughout the entire body and legs.

Crystal Shrimp Grading (The Letter Scale)

For Caridina species like Crystal Reds, the naming follows a letter system: C, B, A, S, SS, and SSS. An SSS Grade Crystal Red is often called a Mosura, referring to the specific pattern where the red is mostly confined to the head.

Don’t let the high-end names intimidate you! A “low-grade” Cherry Shrimp is just as healthy and fun to watch as a “Painted Fire Red.” In fact, starting with lower grades is often a great way to learn the ropes of shrimp keeping.

How to Use Different Names for Shrimp When Buying

When you are ready to add new inhabitants to your “Aquifarm,” I always recommend doing a quick search for the scientific name. This ensures you are getting exactly what you expect.

If a seller uses a fancy trade name like “Galaxy Rasbora Shrimp” (which isn’t a real thing, by the way!), ask for the Latin name. If they can’t provide it, they might not be a specialized breeder. Trusted sellers will always be transparent about the different names for shrimp they use.

Another tip: check the temperature and pH requirements associated with the name. If you see “Bee Shrimp,” you know you need cooler, acidic water. If you see “Cherry Shrimp,” you have a bit more flexibility with your tap water.

Essential Care Tips for Any Species

Regardless of the name on the bag, all aquarium shrimp share some fundamental needs. If you follow these “golden rules,” your colony will thrive, no matter what you call them!

• Stability is King: Shrimp are sensitive to sudden changes. Always drip acclimate your new arrivals over 2-3 hours.
• Copper is Deadly: Many fish medications contain copper, which is fatal to invertebrates. Always check the label!
• Live Plants are a Must: Shrimp love grazing on biofilm that grows on plants like Java Moss or Anubias.
• Gentle Filtration: Use a sponge filter to ensure your baby shrimp (shrimplets) don’t get sucked into the intake.

FAQ: Common Questions About Shrimp Naming

Are “Blue Dream” and “Blue Velvet” shrimp the same?

They are both Neocaridina davidi, but they usually come from different breeding lines. Blue Dream shrimp tend to be a darker, ink-blue color, while Blue Velvet are often lighter and more transparent.

Why did my “Red Cherry Shrimp” turn clear?

This is often due to stress or a lack of camouflage. If your shrimp feel vulnerable, they may lose their pigment. Providing plenty of hiding spots and dark substrate can help their colors “pop.”

What is a “Skittles Tank”?

A “Skittles Tank” is a hobbyist term for a tank that contains a mix of many different names for shrimp and colors (red, blue, yellow, etc.). It looks beautiful, but be aware that they will interbreed and eventually produce “wild type” brown offspring.

Is a “Pistol Shrimp” okay for my freshwater tank?

No! Pistol shrimp are saltwater species known for their powerful “claws” that create sonic bubbles. If you see a “shrimp” with one massive claw in a freshwater shop, it is likely a species of Macrobrachium (Long Arm Prawn).

Conclusion

Navigating the different names for shrimp might seem like learning a second language at first, but it quickly becomes second nature. Whether you call them Neocaridina, Cherries, or simply “those cool little red guys,” the joy they bring to an aquarium is universal.

Remember to prioritize scientific names when researching care requirements, but feel free to enjoy the creative trade names that make this hobby so vibrant. Your “Aquifarm” is a place for discovery and relaxation, so don’t let the terminology stress you out.

By understanding the labels, you are now better equipped to choose the right species for your skill level and tank setup. Happy shrimp keeping, and may your colonies be ever-growing and colorful!

Expert Tip: Always keep a small notebook or a digital log of the specific names and sources of your shrimp. This is incredibly helpful if you ever decide to sell your offspring or need to troubleshoot health issues later on! Consistency is the hallmark of a master aquarist.