A highly popular, industrious freshwater shrimp renowned for its unmatched algae-eating abilities. Popularized by aquascaper Takashi Amano, they are significantly larger and hardier than most dwarf shrimp (like Cherry Shrimp). They are notorious food-thieves during feeding time and excellent escape artists, requiring a tight-fitting lid. Their larvae require saltwater to develop, so they will not overpopulate in a freshwater aquarium.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard Amano shrimp. Females are generally larger and more robust with dashed lines along their sides, while males are slightly smaller with distinct dot patterns. Both sexes share identical husbandry requirements.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Wild Type
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🟢Ideal Tank MatesAmano Shrimp Care Guide Summary
The Amano Shrimp, scientifically known as Caridina multidentata, belongs to the Invertebrates family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 5 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Amano Shrimp requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 18°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 4–14 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
The Amano Shrimp is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. The Amano Shrimp is typically available in one standard form.
Amano Shrimp Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Amano Shrimp, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom and mid-level zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include an established tank with natural algae growth, as they depend on it as a primary food source and dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper.
Amano Shrimp Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Amano Shrimp is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, shy or slow-feeding tankmates may be outcompeted at feeding time and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom and mid-level zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Amano Shrimp.
10 Gallon Standard
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
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Frequently Asked Questions About Amano Shrimp
How big does Amano Shrimp get?
Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 5 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Amano Shrimp need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm are recommended for Amano Shrimp. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Amano Shrimp need?
Amano Shrimp thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 18–28°C, a pH between 6 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 4–14 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Amano Shrimp peaceful or aggressive?
Amano Shrimp is classified as peaceful with an aggression score of 1 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Amano Shrimp live alone?
Yes, Amano Shrimp can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Amano Shrimp have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Amano Shrimp benefits from established algae (otocinclus) and plants - densely covered in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Does Amano Shrimp need a lid on the tank?
Yes. Amano Shrimp is a known jumper, and a tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent escape. Even a small gap can be enough for a determined fish to leap out.
Similar Species
Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
One of the most popular and hardy freshwater invertebrates in the hobby. They come in a rainbow of selectively bred colors. They are excellent scavengers and algae eaters, perfect for nano planted tanks. They are completely peaceful and have a negligible bioload, though they are highly vulnerable to predation by almost any fish with a mouth large enough to eat them.
Bamboo Shrimp
Atyopsis moluccensis
A large, completely peaceful freshwater filter-feeding shrimp. They use specialized fan-like appendages to catch microorganisms and fine food particles from the water column. They require an established aquarium with moderate to high water flow and tall resting places (like driftwood) directly in the current.
Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
The most iconic South American Cichlid, known for its distinct arrowhead shape and majestic fins. While domestic strains are hardy, they remain cichlids: they are semi-aggressive predators that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras). They form loose shoals as juveniles but pair off and become territorial as they mature. Height is more important than length for this species.
Japanese Ricefish (Medaka)
Oryzias latipes
A hardy, small, and colorful fish native to East Asia. Extremely popular in the outdoor pond hobby and nano aquariums. They are 'amphidromous' (tolerant of salinity changes) and can survive a wide range of temperatures, making them excellent tub/pond fish. They are surface dwellers that look best when viewed from above (top-down).
Nerite Snail
Neritina natalensis
The gold standard for algae control in freshwater aquariums. Native to Africa, these snails are renowned for their voracious appetite for diatoms and spot algae. A key feature is their inability to breed in freshwater; they lay white sesame-seed-like eggs that will not hatch without brackish/marine conditions, preventing population explosions. They are escapists and require a tight-fitting lid.
Clown Loach
Chromobotia macracanthus
A highly popular but large-growing shoaling fish famous for eating nuisance snails. Known for their striking orange and black bands, they are highly social and must be kept in groups. They have no standard scales, making them sensitive to medications and prone to Ich, requiring pristine, warm water. They are known for their quirky behavior of sleeping on their sides or backs.