Amano Shrimp Care and Habitat Guide

Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata, previously known as Caridina japonica) are popular freshwater shrimp in the aquarium hobby, prized for their algae-eating abilities and peaceful nature. Here’s a detailed overview:

Key Features:

• Size: 2–2.5 inches (5–6 cm) when fully grown.

• Lifespan: 2–3 years (sometimes up to 5 years in optimal conditions).

• Color: Transparent with light brown or gray markings, often with dotted lines along the body.

• Behavior: Peaceful, active, and social; best kept in groups.

Habitat & Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (larger for groups).

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 70–80°F (21–27°C).

  • pH: 6.5–7.5.

  • Hardness: Prefers slightly soft to moderately hard water.

• Substrate & Decor: Fine gravel or sand, with plants, driftwood, and hiding spots.

• Filtration: Gentle flow (sponge filters work well).

Diet:

• Primarily algae eaters (hair algae, biofilm, etc.).

• Supplement with algae wafers, blanched veggies (zucchini, spinach), and high-quality shrimp pellets.

• Avoid copper-based foods (toxic to shrimp).

Tank Mates:

• Compatible: Small peaceful fish (e.g., neon tetras, otocinclus), snails, and other dwarf shrimp (e.g., cherry shrimp).

• Avoid: Large or aggressive fish (e.g., cichlids, bettas may prey on them).

Breeding:

• Difficulty: Challenging in freshwater; larvae require brackish water to survive.

• Process: Females carry eggs (20–30) for ~5 weeks before releasing larvae. Raising young requires transferring larvae to brackish conditions (salinity ~1.010–1.015 SG).

Common Health Issues:

• Molting Problems: Caused by poor diet or incorrect water parameters (ensure adequate calcium).

• Copper Toxicity: Deadly even in small amounts (check medications/food ingredients).

• Parasites/Fungi: Quarantine new shrimp to prevent outbreaks.

Why Keep Them?

• Excellent algae controllers.

• Low bioload and easy to care for (once acclimated).

• Fascinating to observe as they forage and interact.

Would you like tips on acclimating them or troubleshooting common issues?