Black Rili Shrimp

Common Name: Black Rili Shrimp, Black Rili, Rili Shrimp, Carbon Rili
Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi "Black Rili"
Genus: Neocaridina
Wild Origin: Asia (Selective Breed)
Adult Size: 1.25 inches

**Note: All livestock orders will come carefully packaged with solid wall Styrofoam insulation and shipped via 1-day shipping only. No additional insulation is needed for your livestock.

The Black Rili Shrimp, or Carbon Rili, is a visually stunning freshwater shrimp known for its unique color pattern. Selective breeding has isolated a trait where the deep black pigment is concentrated at the head and tail, leaving the midsection translucent or smoky. This high-contrast, segmented appearance makes them a dynamic addition to the shrimp aquarium, as they provide a look that pops beautifully against light-colored sand or bright green carpeting plants.

As aquatic pets, Black Rilis are exceptionally active and social. They are famous for being part of the "clean-up crew," tirelessly grazing on biofilm and algae throughout the shrimp tank. Because they belong to the Neocaridina genus, they are incredibly hardy and adaptable, making them a top-tier choice for beginners. Their bold patterns and ease of care make them a functional and aesthetic favorite for any freshwater aquascape.

Check out our guide on the different substrates that can help achieve ideal water parameters for these shrimp: Best Substrate for Shrimp

Key Features & Important Notes

• Tank raised specimen
• Unsexed juveniles
• Features deep black caps on the head and tail with a clear mid-section.
• To increase survival rates, please allow 2-3 business days after an order is placed to properly prepare live animal shipments. 
  

Recommended Water Parameters:

• Temperature Range: 68–76°F
• pH: 6.8-7.6
• TDS: 150–300 ppm
• GH: 6–8 dGH
• KH: 2–5 dKH

Recommended Tank Size
5+ gallons, minimum. While they thrive in nano setups, a larger volume (10+ gallons) ensures a more stable environment for a growing colony to flourish.

Diet
Omnivorous. Black Rilis primarily feed on naturally occurring biofilm and algae. Supplement their diet with high-quality plant-based pellets, spirulina, and blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini to support their health and vibrant black pigmentation.

Breeding
Black Rili Shrimp are eager and prolific breeders. Sexing is straightforward once they reach maturity; females are notably larger and display a visible "saddle" behind the head where eggs are stored. To ensure a successful colony, we recommend starting with 8–10 specimens to guarantee a healthy mix of males and females.

The breeding cycle begins when a fertile female molts and releases pheromones, triggering the males into an active search. Once "berried," she will carry the eggs for approximately 2–3 weeks. The fry hatch as self-sufficient, miniature versions of the adults. Always leave molted shells in the tank; the colony will consume them to recycle essential minerals like calcium for their own growth.

Check out our blog article to learn how to breed freshwater shrimp.