Ocean Blue

Ocean Blue Shrimp, closely related to Blue Dream Shrimp, are a stunning variety of freshwater shrimp known for their mesmerizing blue coloration. These shrimp are a favorite among aquarists for their striking appearance and peaceful demeanor. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Ocean Blue Shrimp, including their appearance, size, behavior, tank requirements, water parameters, diet, breeding, color variations, and compatibility.

Appearance and Size Ocean Blue Shrimp are characterized by their deep, vivid blue color, which covers their entire body, including the legs and antennae. This vibrant blue hue can vary from a lighter sky blue to a more intense, dark blue, depending on the individual shrimp and environmental factors. They typically reach a size of 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm), making them ideal for both small and large aquariums.

Behavior These shrimp are peaceful and active, often seen exploring the tank and grazing on algae, biofilm, and detritus. Ocean Blue Shrimp are social creatures and do best in groups, which helps them feel secure and exhibit natural behaviors like foraging and exploring. They are excellent algae eaters, contributing to the cleanliness and balance of the aquarium.

Tank Requirements To create an ideal environment for Ocean Blue Shrimp, a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots is recommended. Plants like java moss, anubias, and ferns provide cover and surfaces for biofilm growth, which is an important part of their diet. A minimum tank size of 5 gallons is recommended, but larger tanks provide more stability and space for the shrimp to thrive.

Water Parameters Ocean Blue Shrimp thrive in stable water conditions. The ideal water parameters for these shrimp are:

• Temperature: 68-78°F (20-26°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• GH: 4-8 dGH
• KH: 1-4 dKH

Maintaining consistent water quality with regular water changes and monitoring is crucial for their health and well-being.

Diet These shrimp are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet. In the wild, they feed on algae, biofilm, and detritus. In the aquarium, they can be fed high-quality shrimp pellets, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Occasionally, protein-rich foods such as frozen or live brine shrimp can be offered. It’s important to avoid overfeeding, as excess food can lead to poor water quality.

Breeding Breeding Ocean Blue Shrimp is relatively easy in a well-maintained aquarium. Females carry eggs under their abdomen, known as a saddle, until they hatch into larvae. Providing a stable environment with optimal water conditions and a balanced diet will encourage successful breeding. The tiny larvae feed on micro-organisms and biofilm in the tank.

Color Variations While Ocean Blue Shrimp are primarily known for their deep blue color, there can be variations in the intensity and shade of the blue, ranging from a lighter blue to a more intense, almost sapphire blue. These variations can be influenced by genetics, diet, and water conditions, adding to the unique appeal of this shrimp variety.

Compatibility Ocean Blue Shrimp are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive tank mates. They do well with small fish like tetras, rasboras, and other shrimp species. It’s best to avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may pose a threat to them.

Ocean Blue Shrimp are a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to any freshwater aquarium. Their stunning blue color, peaceful nature, and easy care requirements make them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. By providing the right environment, diet, and water conditions, you can enjoy the beauty and elegance of Ocean Blue Shrimp in your own aquatic setup.