Blue Rili Shrimp

The Blue Rili Shrimp is a captive-bred Neocaridina davidi colour morph that presents the distinctive rili pattern — solid colour at the anterior and posterior of the body, with a near-transparent abdomen — in a cool, attractive blue. The blue sections range from pale cornflower to deeper steel blue depending on line quality, and the combination of blue and transparent segments creates a visually interesting, almost fragmented appearance that differs markedly from solid-colour Neocaridina morphs.

The Blue Rili was developed by crossing blue Neocaridina lines with rili-patterned individuals and then selectively breeding for consistent expression of both traits. As with other rili morphs, maintaining a clean and consistent pattern across a colony requires careful selection — offspring without culling will trend towards a mix of solid-coloured, rili-patterned, and unpigmented individuals.

Blue Rili Shrimp are as easy to keep as any other Neocaridina variant. They are highly tolerant of typical aquarium water conditions, do not require specialised RO water, and thrive in community setups with other peaceful nano species. In a planted aquarium with dark substrate, the blue sections of the rili pattern are particularly vivid and eye-catching. The combination of moderate rarity and attractive patterning makes the Blue Rili a popular choice among hobbyists who have mastered Cherry Shrimp and are looking for a more unusual display morph.

Tank Setup

A 10-litre minimum tank with standard substrate, Java moss, fine-leaved plants, and leaf litter provides an ideal environment. Dark substrates such as black sand enhance the blue colouration. A sponge filter protects juvenile shrimp and provides a colonisation surface for beneficial bacteria.

Water Parameters

Blue Rili Shrimp are adaptable: pH 6.5–8.0, GH 6–20, KH 2–8, temperature 18–26 °C. Dechlorinated tap water is generally suitable. Conduct 20–30% weekly water changes. Stability is more important than hitting precise values within the acceptable range.

Feeding

Graze on biofilm, algae, and organic debris. Supplement with algae wafers, blanched zucchini or spinach, snowflake food, and shrimp pellets. Carotenoid-rich foods may help enhance the blue colouration in some individuals. Feed lightly every one to two days to avoid fouling the water.

Tank Mates

Compatible with other peaceful Neocaridina variants (though cross-breeding will dilute the pattern), small nano fish, and snails. Keep in a species-only setup for best long-term colour consistency. Avoid any fish that could predate on small shrimp.

Health and Breeding

Robust and prolific in stable conditions. Females carry 20–30 eggs for three weeks. Baby shrimp emerge fully formed and graze independently on biofilm. Avoid copper in all forms — it is acutely lethal to all shrimp. Plant new additions for two to four weeks in a separate tank to off-gas any pesticide residues before introducing them to the shrimp tank.