Red Rili Shrimp Care Guide - Aquarium Setup, Feeding & Breeding

Red Rili Shrimp are a striking selectively bred morph of Neocaridina davidi, recognised by vivid red patches separated by transparent or lightly coloured sections across the body. The pattern varies between individuals, with some showing strong red colouration on the head and tail while others have more extensive clear areas. Their small size and contrasting markings make them especially eye-catching against dark plants and substrate.

These shrimp are peaceful, active invertebrates that spend much of their time walking over plants, wood, stones and other surfaces while grazing. They use their tiny legs and specialised mouthparts to pick at algae, biofilm and particles, and may become more confident and visible when kept in a sizeable group.

In nature, Neocaridina davidi inhabit shallow freshwater environments with plentiful vegetation, leaf litter and submerged surfaces. They are adaptable animals, but like many small shrimp they are vulnerable during moulting and rely on cover to avoid predators and disturbance.

Red Rili Shrimp are popular because they combine attractive colouration with relatively straightforward care and prolific breeding. Their transparent sections also make them useful for observing internal organs, developing eggs and the changes that occur as they mature and moult.

Neocaridina davidi is native to freshwater streams, ponds and marginal habitats in Taiwan and parts of mainland East Asia. Red Rili Shrimp are a selectively bred ornamental colour form developed in the aquarium trade rather than a naturally occurring wild population.

A group of Red Rili Shrimp can be housed in an established aquarium of at least 20 litres, with a footprint of roughly 30 x 20 cm or larger. Use a mature, gentle-filtered setup with a pre-filter sponge or suitably protected intake so shrimplets cannot be drawn in. Fine gravel or shrimp-safe sand provides a practical substrate, while Java moss, other fine-leaved plants, floating plants, driftwood, rocks and leaf litter create grazing surfaces and shelter. Avoid copper-based medications and sudden changes in water chemistry, and provide a stable, well-oxygenated environment.

Adults reach approximately 2.5–3 cm (1–1.2 in) in total length. Females are usually larger and deeper-bodied than males, reaching the upper end of this range, while males commonly remain closer to 2–2.5 cm (0.8–1 in).

Red Rili Shrimp obtain much of their nutrition by grazing on algae, microorganisms and biofilm growing on aquarium surfaces. Supplement this natural grazing with a quality shrimp food containing suitable minerals, along with occasional blanched vegetables such as courgette, spinach or cucumber. Small amounts of sinking pellets, algae wafers or leaf litter can be offered, but remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality. A varied diet supports colour, growth and successful moulting.

Red Rili Shrimp are best kept with peaceful nano fish and other non-predatory invertebrates. Suitable companions include small adult Otocinclus, pygmy Corydoras, celestial pearl danios, ember tetras, chili rasboras, endlers and small freshwater snails, although even peaceful fish may eat newly hatched shrimplets. Avoid large fish, cichlids, bettas with a strong hunting instinct, loaches and other species that routinely prey on crustaceans. They should not be housed with aggressive or highly territorial tankmates.

Red Rili Shrimp breed readily in established freshwater aquariums when well fed and free from predators. Females carry a clutch of eggs beneath the abdomen, where they are fertilised and aerated until hatching after approximately three to four weeks. The young hatch as fully formed miniature shrimp and can be raised with the adults, although dense moss and fine plant cover greatly improve survival. Juveniles may be selectively removed or separated if maintaining a strong red-and-clear Rili pattern is important.

Females are generally larger, broader and more strongly coloured than males, with a noticeably rounded abdomen and a curved underside for carrying eggs. Mature females may also display a pale saddle behind the head before breeding, whereas males are slimmer, smaller and often more translucent.