Orange Rili Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) are a hardy, colorful variety of dwarf freshwater shrimp prized for their striking “rili” pattern, featuring a bright orange head and tail with a transparent midsection. Originally selectively bred from Orange Pumpkin shrimp, they are exceptionally popular among beginners due to their adaptability, peaceful temperament, and active algae-eating habits.

Water Parameters & Care:

• Water Temperature: 18°C – 26°C (Optimal)
• pH Level: 7.0 – 7.8 (Can adapt to lower pH)
• General Hardness (GH): 4 – 10 dGH
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 1 – 8 dKH
• TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 150 – 300 ppm
• Tank Size: Minimum 19 litres, but 38 litres is highly recommended for stable water chemistry.
• Substrate: Inert substrates (like plain aquarium gravel or sand) work perfectly. Avoid active buffering substrates that lower the pH.
• Copper Warning: Like all invertebrates, they are highly sensitive to copper. Never use copper-based medications in their tank.

Diet & Feeding:

• Natural Food: They heavily rely on live plants, mosses, driftwood, and botanical leaves (like Indian Almond leaves) which harbor biofilm.
• Supplemental Food: Feed high-quality pellets like Shrimp King Range or HWA.
• Minerals: Supplementing with mineral powders or blocks supports successful molting and prevents shell failure.

Breeding & Tank Mates:

• Breeding Care: The female will carry a clutch of eggs under her tail for about 30 days before they hatch into fully formed, miniature versions of the adults. Use a sponge filter or intake protector to ensure baby shrimp do not get sucked into the intake.
• True Breeding & Culling: While they breed true to color, some offspring may lack intense color or display patchy, reddish hues. Serious hobbyists separate (“cull”) these lower-grade individuals to preserve the bright orange rili line.
• Ideal Tank Mates: Peaceful invertebrates like snails or other non-interbreeding shrimp (like Caridina varieties) are 100% safe. If keeping them with nano fish (like Microrasboras, Neon Tetras, or Corydoras), ensure there is plenty of dense vegetation for shrimplets to hide from hungry mouths. Avoid large, predatory fish.