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
Water Parameters
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
Amano Shrimp Care 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. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include established algae (otocinclus) and plants - densely covered.
Amano Shrimp can be kept singly or in a group, making them flexible additions to most setups. Keepers should be aware that this species is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. The Amano Shrimp is typically available in one standard form.
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.
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.
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black)
Caridina cantonensis
A sensitive, highly prized dwarf shrimp species known for its vivid red/white or black/white banding. Unlike the hardy Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina), Bee Shrimp require cool, soft, acidic water and typically require active buffering soil to thrive. They are peaceful grazers perfect for specific biotope setups.