Amano Shrimp

Caridina multidentata

Also known as: Yamato shrimp, Algae-eating shrimp, Japanese shrimp

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–27°C
• pH: 6.5–8
• Hardness: 71–250 ppm

Care Summary

The single most effective algae-eating shrimp in the hobby, with a working appetite far exceeding their size. Will systematically clear soft green algae, hair algae, and most other unwanted growth from a planted tank. Their translucent body with scattered brown spots makes them less visually striking than cherry shrimp but more functionally useful. Particularly sensitive to copper (as with all shrimp), so avoid all copper-based medications and check that any plant fertilisers are shrimp-safe. Often kept in groups of 3-6 in larger tanks for algae control rather than as a centrepiece species.

Tankmates

Significantly larger than cherry shrimp — adults are too big to be threatened by most peaceful community fish, including most tetras, rasboras, and corydoras. Unlike Neocaridina shrimp, amano shrimp cannot breed in freshwater (their larvae require brackish water), so they will never overpopulate a tank. Made famous by aquascaper Takashi Amano as the best natural algae control for planted tanks. Active foragers visible throughout the day.

Compatible with

• Neon Tetra
• Harlequin Rasbora
• Bronze Corydoras
• Ember Tetra
• White Cloud Mountain Minnow
• Otocinclus
• Mystery Snail

Avoid keeping with

• Betta
• Angelfish Adult
• Large Cichlids
• Loaches

Common Problems

• copper poisoning from medications or plant fertilisers
• moulting failure from inadequate diet or sudden parameter shifts
• predation by aggressive fish
• ammonia spike sensitivity in newly cycled tanks

Sources: seriouslyfish.com, fishbase.org · Last updated: 2026-06-06