Does the light affect shrimp color?

Indirectly. The light's red and blue rendering affects how shrimp look, not how they behave. Shrimp color is primarily genetic and diet-driven.

Do shrimp need a day-night cycle?

Shrimp don't strictly need a photoperiod, but plants do, and a consistent 6–8 hour light schedule keeps algae in check.

Planted Tank Gear Planted aquarium gear Get my setup

Calculator Filters Heaters Lights Substrate Guides

lights

Best Light for a Shrimp Tank

Light picks for a planted shrimp tank. Low-tech lighting that makes shrimp colors pop.

Updated April 16, 2026 Amazon Associate

Which one, in one line

The decision tree

you run low-tech plants and want shrimp colors to pop → Hygger 957 Adjustable LED

Shrimp tank lighting

Shrimp don’t need intense light. Low-tech plants do fine under modest LED output, and low-light setups have fewer algae issues in a tank that’s harder to clean around shrimp.

The Hygger 957 is a solid budget pick because it provides enough spectrum for Anubias, Java moss, and other shrimp-tank staples without pushing so much PAR that algae takes over. Pair it with a simple outlet timer for a reliable photoperiod.

Quick answers

FAQ

Does the light affect shrimp color?: Indirectly. The light's red and blue rendering affects how shrimp look, not how they behave. Shrimp color is primarily genetic and diet-driven.
Do shrimp need a day-night cycle?: Shrimp don't strictly need a photoperiod, but plants do, and a consistent 6–8 hour light schedule keeps algae in check.

Keep reading

Related picks

filters

Best Filter for a Shrimp Tank

substrate

Best Substrate for a Planted Tank

Last updated April 16, 2026 · As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.