Cherry shrimp thrive in planted aquariums because plants provide biofilm, hiding spaces, and stable water conditions. The best plants for cherry shrimp are hardy species that grow easily, support beneficial microorganisms, and create safe areas for baby shrimp to hide.

Shrimp spend most of their time grazing on algae and biofilm that grows on plant surfaces. Mosses, floating plants, and slow-growing leafy plants are particularly beneficial because they create natural feeding surfaces and shelter.

Many shrimp keepers prefer low-maintenance plants that tolerate different lighting and water conditions. These plants help maintain water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and reducing algae growth.

In this guide, you will discover the 10 best plants for cherry shrimp aquariums, including beginner-friendly options that improve shrimp survival, breeding success, and overall tank health.

10 Best Plants For Cherry Shrimp

1. Java Moss – Best Overall Plant For Cherry Shrimp Tanks

Beginners often choose Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) because it is one of the easiest aquarium plants to grow. It thrives in low light and adapts to many water conditions. This makes it perfect for shrimp keepers who want a low-maintenance plant.

The dense moss structure creates excellent hiding spots for baby shrimp. Shrimp also graze on algae and microorganisms that grow on the moss surface. Because of this, it becomes a natural feeding ground.

Many shrimp breeders use Java moss to improve shrimp survival rates. The plant also absorbs nutrients and helps maintain water quality.

Pros

• Easy care
• Dense cover
• Biofilm surface
• Low light
• Fast growth
• Breeding aid
• Shrimp safe

Cons

• Messy growth
• Trimming needed
• Can spread

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2. Anubias Nana – Best Low-Maintenance Shrimp Plant

Beginners often keep Anubias Nana because it grows slowly and requires minimal care. This hardy plant thrives in low light and does not require CO₂ injection.

The broad leaves provide surfaces where shrimp can graze on algae and biofilm. Because it attaches to rocks or driftwood, it works well in aquascaped shrimp tanks.

Anubias is highly durable and rarely dies once established. This makes it one of the safest plants for beginner shrimp aquariums.

Pros

• Very hardy
• Low light
• Slow growth
• Easy care
• Broad leaves
• Shrimp safe
• Long lasting

Cons

• Slow growth
• Algae buildup
• Higher cost

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3. Java Fern – Best Beginner Plant For Shrimp Tanks

Beginners often add Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) because it is extremely easy to grow. Like Anubias, it can be attached to rocks or driftwood instead of planted in substrate.

The long leaves create shaded areas where shrimp feel safe. These leaves also collect algae and biofilm for shrimp to eat.

Java fern adapts to a wide range of water conditions. This makes it one of the most reliable plants for shrimp aquariums.

Pros

• Beginner friendly
• Low light
• Hardy plant
• Easy care
• Biofilm surface
• Durable leaves
• Shrimp safe

Cons

• Slow growth
• Large leaves
• Algae buildup

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4. Hornwort – Best Fast-Growing Plant For Shrimp Tanks

Beginners often use Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) because it grows extremely fast. This plant absorbs excess nutrients and improves water quality.

Hornwort can float or be planted in the substrate. Its feathery structure provides excellent hiding spaces for shrimp and baby shrimplets.

Because it grows rapidly, it helps stabilize the aquarium ecosystem. Many shrimp keepers use it during the tank cycling process.

Pros

• Fast growth
• Water cleaner
• Dense cover
• Easy care
• Floating option
• Shrimp shelter
• Hardy plant

Cons

• Frequent trimming
• Needle shedding
• Can overgrow

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5. Water Wisteria – Best Oxygenating Shrimp Plant

Beginners often choose Water Wisteria (Hygrophila difformis) because it grows quickly and improves water quality. Its bright green leaves add a natural look to shrimp aquariums.

This plant can be planted in the substrate or floated. Both growth forms provide hiding spaces for shrimp.

Water wisteria also competes with algae for nutrients. This helps maintain a clean and balanced shrimp tank.

Pros

• Fast growth
• Oxygen boost
• Easy care
• Bright green
• Shrimp shelter
• Algae control
• Flexible growth

Cons

• Needs trimming
• Moderate light
• Rapid spread

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6. Marimo Moss Balls – Best Decorative Shrimp Plant

Beginners often love Marimo Moss Balls (Aegagropila linnaei) for their unique round shape. These algae balls require very little maintenance.

Shrimp frequently climb and graze on the moss ball surface. The plant also helps absorb nutrients from the water.

Because they are easy to care for, Marimo moss balls are extremely popular in shrimp aquariums.

Pros

• Unique shape
• Low maintenance
• Shrimp grazing
• Compact size
• Beginner friendly
• Slow growth
• Decorative

Cons

• Slow growth
• Limited cover
• Light sensitive

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7. Amazon Frogbit – Best Floating Plant For Cherry Shrimp

Beginners often choose Amazon Frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum) because it is an easy floating plant. The long roots create hiding places for shrimp.

Floating plants also reduce excess light in the aquarium. This helps control algae growth.

The roots collect biofilm and microorganisms. Shrimp graze on these natural food sources throughout the day.

Pros

• Floating plant
• Root shelter
• Biofilm growth
• Fast spread
• Easy care
• Algae control
• Shrimp friendly

Cons

• Surface coverage
• Fast spread
• Needs pruning

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8. Pearl Weed – Best Carpet Plant For Shrimp Tanks

Beginners often plant Pearl Weed (Hemianthus micranthemoides) to create a lush carpet in shrimp tanks. The dense growth provides excellent hiding areas.

Shrimp graze on algae that grows on the plant leaves. The carpet structure also helps baby shrimp survive.

Depending on lighting, pearl weed can grow upward or form a carpet. This makes it versatile for aquascaping.

Pros

• Dense growth
• Carpet plant
• Shrimp shelter
• Biofilm surface
• Attractive look
• Fast growth
• Aquascaping friendly

Cons

• Needs trimming
• Moderate light
• Can spread

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9. Cryptocoryne Wendtii – Best Background Shrimp Plant

Beginners often add Cryptocoryne Wendtii because it adapts to many water conditions. It thrives in low to medium light environments.

The broad leaves create shaded areas where shrimp can hide. This makes it excellent for breeding tanks.

Cryptocoryne plants are also known for their durability. Once established, they require very little maintenance.

Pros

• Hardy plant
• Broad leaves
• Shrimp shelter
• Low light
• Easy care
• Attractive colors
• Long lifespan

Cons

• Melt phase
• Slow growth
• Root feeder

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10. Dwarf Water Lettuce – Best Floating Shrimp Plant

Beginners often use Dwarf Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) because it floats on the surface and grows quickly. Its hanging roots create excellent shrimp hiding spots.

Floating plants also help reduce light intensity in the tank. This can slow algae growth and stabilize water conditions.

Because it absorbs excess nutrients, dwarf water lettuce improves water quality. This makes it a helpful addition to shrimp aquariums.

Pros

• Floating plant
• Fast growth
• Root shelter
• Water cleaner
• Shrimp safe
• Easy care
• Algae control

Cons

• Surface spread
• Needs pruning
• Strong light

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Best Plants For Cherry Shrimp (FAQs)

1. What is the best plant for cherry shrimp tanks?

Java moss is widely considered the best plant for cherry shrimp. It provides hiding places and supports biofilm growth, which shrimp feed on.

2. Do cherry shrimp need live plants?

Live plants are not mandatory but greatly improve shrimp health. They provide natural food sources, oxygen, and shelter.

3. What floating plants are best for cherry shrimp?

Amazon frogbit and dwarf water lettuce are excellent choices because their roots provide shelter and biofilm surfaces.

4. Can cherry shrimp live in heavily planted tanks?

Yes. Cherry shrimp actually thrive in densely planted aquariums because they provide hiding places and stable water conditions.

5. Do plants help cherry shrimp breed?

Yes. Mosses and dense plants help protect baby shrimp from predators and provide grazing surfaces.

6. Do shrimp eat aquarium plants?

Cherry shrimp rarely eat healthy plants. They mainly consume algae, biofilm, and decaying plant matter.

7. Do shrimp tanks need fertilizer for plants?

Sometimes, but shrimp-safe fertilizers should be used carefully to avoid harming shrimp.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best plants for cherry shrimp is essential for creating a healthy and natural aquarium environment. The Java Moss stands out as the best choice, while Anubias Nana earns the runner-up position because of its hardy nature and shrimp-friendly leaves.

Both plants provide excellent grazing surfaces for biofilm and algae. They also create hiding spaces that improve shrimp survival and breeding success.

Adding live plants also stabilizes water quality and reduces algae growth. This makes planted aquariums far easier to maintain.

If you want a thriving shrimp colony, start by adding these shrimp-friendly plants and build a lush planted aquarium today.