Prepare before opening the bag
Turn the aquarium lights down and make sure the tank is ready: cycled, temperature-stable, and free from predators that could immediately hunt new arrivals. Have a clean container and airline tubing ready if you plan to drip acclimate.
Float a sealed bag briefly to bring its temperature closer to the aquarium. This does not equalize pH or hardness. If the seller provides water readings, compare them with your tank before choosing a transfer method.
Dilute gradually when water differs
For a meaningful difference in pH, GH, or conductivity, a slow drip is a common cautious approach. Place shrimp and shipping water in a clean container, then run aquarium water through airline tubing at a slow, steady drip. Keep it shaded and supervised.
There is no reliable universal timer for every shipment. The right pace depends on travel time, how the bag water changed, and how different the two waters are. Follow the seller's live-arrival instructions when available.
Transfer without adding bag water
Move the shrimp with a small soft net or a clean shrimp-safe cup. Avoid pouring transport water into the aquarium, where it may carry waste or treatment residues. Give new shrimp places to hide and leave lights low for a while.
Skip extra handling and do not combine acclimation with a major water change. If shrimp appear distressed, pause and recheck temperature and the water comparison instead of changing several variables at once.
- Buce Plant · 7 Easy Steps to Drip Acclimate Shrimp and Fish
- Aquarium Co-Op · Care Guide for Cherry Shrimp
Use these as general hobby references. Test your aquarium and confirm product guidance before making changes.