Black Rili Shrimp (Neocaridina)

Black Rili Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi), also called Carbon Rili, are hardy freshwater dwarf shrimp prized for their striking appearance—opaque black caps on the head and tail contrasting with a clear or smoky midsection. They're efficient algae eaters and thrive in planted tanks. These shrimp are small and vulnerable to predation, so avoid housing them with fish large enough to eat them. Their fry are especially at risk and require dense vegetation or hiding spots to survive. With a lifespan of one to two years, they're best maintained as a breeding colony rather than individuals. For best results, keep them in an invertebrate-only setup until at least one generation of juveniles reaches adulthood—typically 3 months to a year. Once established, a thriving colony provides natural tank maintenance and fascinating behavior to observe.