Species Profile
The Red Rili Shrimp is prized for its high-contrast red and translucent white coloration. These freshwater shrimp are a stable color morph of the Fire Red Shrimp, which itself was selectively bred from the standard Red Cherry line. Breeders isolated a specific mutation that "breaks up" the solid red pigment, resulting in the iconic Rili pattern: typically a bold red head and tail with a clear, translucent mid-section. Because of this unique look, they stand out beautifully against dark substrates and lush green aquascapes.
**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.
Key Features & Notes
- Tank-raised specimens displaying a bold red head and tail separated by a crystal-clear translucent midsection.
- Hardy, beginner-friendly Neocaridina variety adapts smoothly to a wide range of water parameters.
- Relentless clean-up crew that continuously grazes on biofilm and algae.
- Peaceful, social behavior for community aquariums and nano setups.
- Eager and prolific breeders that quickly establish vibrant, self-sustaining colonies.
Care Specifications
- Maintain clean, well-filtered water with stable GH and KH levels to ensure problem-free molting cycles.
- Keep water parameters strictly free of copper-based medications or heavy metals.
- Supplement their diet with plant-based shrimp pellets, spirulina, and blanched vegetables to ensure proper minerals for molting when natural algae is low.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to maintain stable parameters to ensure a healthy, thriving colony!
| Attribute |
Specification |
| Scientific Name |
Neocaridina davidi |
| Common Name(s) |
Red Rili Shrimp, Red Cherry Rili |
| Care Difficulty |
Easy |
| Adult Size |
1.25" (3.0 cm) |
| Diet |
Omnivore / Biofilm & Algae Scavenger |
| Minimum Tank Size |
5 Gallons |
| Temperature Range |
65°F–80°F (18°C–27°C) |
| pH Range |
7.2–7.6 |
| General Hardness (GH) |
6–8 dGH |
| Carbonate Hardness (KH) |
3–8 dKH |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) |
250–300 ppm |
| Lifespan |
1–2 Years |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I properly acclimate my new freshwater shrimp to prevent shock?
Dwarf shrimp are sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters and total dissolved solids (TDS). Always drip acclimate new arrivals over 1 to 2 hours before releasing them into your tank. Follow our step-by-step tutorial in 7 Easy Steps to Drip Acclimate Shrimp and Fish for the perfect drip rate setup.
2. What substrate is best for keeping dwarf shrimp healthy?
It depends on the species! Neocaridina species like Red Rili Shrimp thrive in inert substrates like gravel, sand, or dark volcanic soil, while Caridina species prefer active aquasoils that buffer pH down. Learn how to select the right foundation for your aquarium shrimp in our Best Substrate for Shrimp Guide.
3. How do I get my colony to start breeding?
As long as water parameters remain stable, temperatures stay in the low 70s, and adequate food is present, dwarf shrimp will breed naturally. To maximize baby shrimplet survival rates and learn how to support berried females, read our complete guide on How to Breed Freshwater Shrimp.
4. Are dwarf shrimp easy to care for if I am a beginner?
Yes, Neocaridina species like Red Rili Shrimp are exceptionally hardy, adaptable to standard tap water conditions, and ideal for beginners. Get a complete overview of parameters, diet, and setup requirements in our Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp Care Guide.
