Orange rili shrimp (5 pair)

Description

The Orange Rili Shrimp is a selectively bred variant of Neocaridina davidi, known for its striking orange and translucent coloration. It is popular among freshwater aquarium enthusiasts due to its hardy nature, ease of care, and ability to thrive in a wide range of water conditions.

Appearance

• Color Pattern: A mix of vibrant orange and clear or semi-transparent sections (Rili pattern).

• Size: Grows up to 2.5–3.5 cm (1–1.4 inches).

• Lifespan: Around 1–2 years, depending on care and environment.

Behavior & Temperament

• Peaceful and social, best kept in groups of at least 5–10 to reduce stress.

• Active scavengers, constantly grazing on biofilm, algae, and detritus.

• Non-aggressive, making them ideal for shrimp-only or community tanks.

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Care Guide

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (but 10 gallons or more is recommended for stability).

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 18–28°C (64–82°F) (best range: 22–26°C / 72–78°F).

  • pH: 6.5–8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline).

  • GH (General Hardness): 6–10 dGH (moderate hardness).

  • KH (Carbonate Hardness): 2–6 dKH.

  • TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 150–300 ppm.

• Filtration:

  • Sponge filters or gentle flow filters to prevent shrimp from getting sucked in.

  • Shrimp thrive in well-established tanks with stable water conditions.

• Substrate & Decorations:

  • Fine gravel or sand (inert or plant-friendly).

  • Live plants like Java moss, Anubias, and Bucephalandra help provide food and shelter.

  • Leaf litter (Indian almond leaves) promotes biofilm growth.

  • Driftwood and caves for hiding spots.

Diet & Feeding

• Primary Diet: Algae, biofilm, detritus.

• Supplemental Foods:

  • Shrimp pellets, algae wafers, and high-quality commercial shrimp food.

  • Blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and carrots.

  • Calcium-rich sources (cuttlefish bone, mineral supplements) for healthy molting.

• Feeding Schedule: 2–3 times a week in small amounts (avoid overfeeding).

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Tank Mates

Safe Tank Mates:

• Other Neocaridina shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp, Blue Dream, Yellow Shrimp).

• Snails (Nerite snails, Mystery snails, Malaysian Trumpet Snails).

• Small, peaceful fish like:

  • Chili Rasboras

  • Celestial Pearl Danios

  • Otocinclus Catfish

  • Ember Tetras

Tank Mates to Avoid:

• Aggressive or predatory fish (e.g., Bettas, Cichlids, larger Barbs).

• Bottom-dwelling fish like Loaches that may prey on shrimp.

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Breeding Orange Rili Shrimp

Easy Breeding Process

• Breeds readily in stable water conditions with plenty of food.

• Mating Behavior: Males chase females after they molt and release pheromones.

• Egg Development:

  • Females carry 20–30 fertilized eggs under their swimmerets.

  • Eggs hatch after about 3–4 weeks into miniature shrimp (no larval stage).

  • Baby shrimp feed on biofilm and tiny particles in the tank.

Key to Successful Breeding:

• Stable water parameters.

• Hiding spots for baby shrimp (moss, fine plants).

• Minimal predator presence.

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