Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata)

Meet the Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata) — the ultimate algae-crunching, tank-cleaning superhero. These little invertebrates are like the janitors of the aquarium world, tirelessly munching away at algae while adding a subtle charm to your tank. They may not steal the spotlight with flashy colors, but their non-stop work ethic and charm make them a must-have addition to any aquarium. Amano Shrimp are perfect for planted tanks, as they excel at cleaning algae in hard-to-reach spots, embodying their role as tiny, graceful, six-legged janitors with ninja-like skills.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 L (bigger is better — more space to graze and perform acrobatics).
• Temperature: 18 – 28 °C (they like it comfortable, not tropical sauna style).
• pH: 6.5 – 7.5.
• Water Hardness: 4 – 12 dGH.
• Filtration: Sponge or gentle filter to protect babies and adults.
• Substrate & Décor: Plants, mosses, driftwood, and rocks for grazing and hideouts — they love exploring.

Diet

Amano Shrimp are primarily herbivores, but they enjoy variety in their diet:

• Algae and biofilm (their daily buffet).
• Blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and cucumber.
• Shrimp-specific pellets or wafers.
• Occasional protein treats like daphnia or finely crushed flakes.

Pro tip: Feed sparingly — these shrimp are graze-all-day champions.

Social Behavior

Amano Shrimp are peaceful, team-oriented, and thrive in groups of 5 or more. They get along with almost any community tank mates, including small fish, peaceful rasboras, tetras, and snails. However, avoid housing them with large or aggressive fish that might view them as a snack.

Breeding

Here’s the catch: Amano Shrimp don’t breed in freshwater. Their larvae require brackish water to develop, so in most home aquariums, you’ll enjoy their hard work and personality rather than raising babies. Think of them as permanent tank guardians!

⭐ Fun Fact

Amano Shrimp were popularized by Takashi Amano, the legendary aquascaper, for their incredible algae-eating skills. They are the unsung heroes of planted tanks, quietly maintaining the beauty of underwater landscapes. ✨

Reference: Bubbly Fish – creating underwater wonders.