All species
Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata)
Photo: Stefanie Leuker · CC0 via Wikimedia Commons

Amano shrimp

Caridina multidentata · Atyidae

Also known as Yamato shrimp, Algae shrimp

Beginner

The best algae-eating shrimp available; larger and hardier than cherries but won't breed in fresh water.

Minimum tank
40 L
Temperature
18–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.8
Adult size
5 cm
Group size
5+
Will it fit your tank?

Sign in and AquaLog compares Amano shrimp against every tank you track — volume, water type, temperature and pH — then adds it to your livestock in one tap.

Sign in to check my tanks
Care requirements
Minimum tank volume
40 L
Temperature
18–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.8
Hardness
4–18 dGH
Lifespan
2–5 years
Diet
Omnivore — algae, biofilm, wafers, blanched veg.
Care level
Beginner
Origin & habitat
Native region
Japan and Taiwan
Water type
Freshwater
Biotope
Fast, cool, rocky streams
Natural conditions
Clean cool water, no copper, plenty of surfaces to graze.
Behaviour & stocking
Temperament
Peaceful
Minimum group
5 fish
Swims
Bottom
Good tank mates
Tetras
Rasboras
Corydoras
Avoid
Large cichlids
Copper medication
Puffers
Breeding & difficulty
Breeding difficulty
Advanced
Sexing
Females are larger with dashes rather than dots on the flanks.
Notes
Larvae need brackish water — no accidental population boom.
Common ailments
Failed moults
Copper poisoning
Jumping out of open tanks

Similar species