Description
Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi (Red Rili variant) Origin: Taiwan (Selectively bred in captivity; does not exist in the wild).
Physical Appearance The Red Rili is prized for the genetic mutation that removes pigment from the center of its body.
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The “Rili” Pattern: Ideally, the head (cephalothorax) and the tail are a deep, solid red, while the middle abdominal segments are clear or glass-like. This creates a striking two-tone contrast.
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Size: They are very small, growing to about 1 to 1.25 inches (2.5–3 cm) in length.
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Gender Differences: Females are generally larger, have a deeper red color, and a curved underbelly. You can often see a yellow “saddle” (undeveloped eggs) on their back or yellow/green eggs held under their tail.
Behavior and Temperament
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Peaceful Grazers: They are completely harmless. They spend their entire day grazing on biofilm, algae, and decaying plant matter found on rocks, glass, and moss.
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Vulnerability: Because they are small and have no defense, they are prey for almost all fish. They should be kept in a “shrimp-only” tank or with very small, peaceful fish like Neon Tetras or Endlers.
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Breeding: They are prolific breeders. If water conditions are good, a colony will grow rapidly. The babies (shrimplets) look like miniature versions of the adults.
Care and Habitat
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Tank Size: They have a very low bio-load. A colony can thrive in a tank as small as 5 gallons.
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Water Conditions: They are hardy Neocaridina shrimp. They prefer stable water parameters (pH 6.5–7.5) and room temperature (65°F–78°F).
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Molting: As they grow, they shed their exoskeleton (shell). You will occasionally see white “ghost” shells in the tank—leave these, as the shrimp eat them to recycle calcium.
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Diet: While they eat algae, they need supplemental food. Shrimp pellets, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini) are excellent.
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Warning: Like all invertebrates, they are deadly allergic to Copper. Never use medications containing copper in a shrimp tank.
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