Amano Shrimp – Top-Tier Algae Eaters for Planted Aquariums
The Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata), also known as the Yamato Shrimp or Japanese Algae-Eating Shrimp, is one of the most efficient and sought-after freshwater cleanup crew members in the aquarium hobby. Renowned for their relentless appetite for algae and detritus, Amanos are a staple in aquascaped and planted tanks worldwide.
They feature a translucent body with light brown or gray tones and a row of dotted markings along their sides. Though not as colorful as other shrimp, their utility, peaceful nature, and subtle beauty more than make up for it. Amano Shrimp are hardy, long-lived, and thrive in established tanks with stable water conditions.
Scientific Name: Caridina multidentata
Common Names: Amano Shrimp, Yamato Shrimp, Japanese Algae Shrimp
Size Shipped: ~0.5 inch
Adult Size: ~2 inches (larger than most dwarf shrimp)
Temperament: Peaceful, non-aggressive
Lifespan: 2–3 years (sometimes longer)
Swimming Level: Bottom to mid-water
Origin: Tank-raised or wild-collected (depending on availability)
Temperature: 68°F – 78°F (20°C – 26°C)
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
GH: 6 – 10
KH: 2 – 6
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
Setup: Planted tanks with hiding spots and driftwood
Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow; shrimp-safe
✔ Best algae eaters among freshwater shrimp
✔ Hardy and beginner-friendly
✔ Ideal for aquascaped and nature-style aquariums
✔ Larger size than most dwarf shrimp = more visible
✔ Excellent tank cleaners without disturbing plants or fish
Biofilm, algae, and leftover fish food
Algae wafers and shrimp-specific pellets
Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber)
Occasional protein-rich supplements
Feed lightly every other day; avoid overfeeding
Amano Shrimp are a must-have for anyone maintaining a clean, balanced, and algae-free planted aquarium. Their hardiness, low bioload, and unmatched work ethic make them ideal companions for peaceful fish and other invertebrates.
Amano Shrimp – Top-Tier Algae Eaters for Planted Aquariums
The Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata), also known as the Yamato Shrimp or Japanese Algae-Eating Shrimp, is one of the most efficient and sought-after freshwater cleanup crew members in the aquarium hobby. Renowned for their relentless appetite for algae and detritus, Amanos are a staple in aquascaped and planted tanks worldwide.
They feature a translucent body with light brown or gray tones and a row of dotted markings along their sides. Though not as colorful as other shrimp, their utility, peaceful nature, and subtle beauty more than make up for it. Amano Shrimp are hardy, long-lived, and thrive in established tanks with stable water conditions.
Scientific Name: Caridina multidentata
Common Names: Amano Shrimp, Yamato Shrimp, Japanese Algae Shrimp
Size Shipped: ~0.5 inch
Adult Size: ~2 inches (larger than most dwarf shrimp)
Temperament: Peaceful, non-aggressive
Lifespan: 2–3 years (sometimes longer)
Swimming Level: Bottom to mid-water
Origin: Tank-raised or wild-collected (depending on availability)
Temperature: 68°F – 78°F (20°C – 26°C)
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
GH: 6 – 10
KH: 2 – 6
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
Setup: Planted tanks with hiding spots and driftwood
Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow; shrimp-safe
✔ Best algae eaters among freshwater shrimp
✔ Hardy and beginner-friendly
✔ Ideal for aquascaped and nature-style aquariums
✔ Larger size than most dwarf shrimp = more visible
✔ Excellent tank cleaners without disturbing plants or fish
Biofilm, algae, and leftover fish food
Algae wafers and shrimp-specific pellets
Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber)
Occasional protein-rich supplements
Feed lightly every other day; avoid overfeeding
Amano Shrimp are a must-have for anyone maintaining a clean, balanced, and algae-free planted aquarium. Their hardiness, low bioload, and unmatched work ethic make them ideal companions for peaceful fish and other invertebrates.
