Amano Shrimp - Caridina multidentata : Complete Shrimp Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata) are highly regarded for their adaptability, peaceful demeanor, and effective cleaning prowess, making them a superb option for novice aquarists seeking to introduce invertebrates into their tanks. Renowned for their proficiency in consuming algae, these shrimp play a pivotal role in maintaining cleanliness and optimal conditions within the aquarium. Additionally, they exhibit resilience across a range of water temperatures, demonstrating suitability for diverse aquatic environments, including garden ponds located in frost-free regions.
It is advisable to maintain Amano Shrimp in groups, as they naturally congregate in large social colonies in their native habitat. These shrimp tend to remain concealed for extended periods while actively foraging on various algae species, including hair algae, commonly found on aquarium plants and decor. Amano Shrimp are compatible with other tranquil and non-aggressive fish, making them an ideal complement to a community aquarium. When choosing tank companions, it is crucial to opt for species that exhibit minimal aggression or predatory behavior. Suitable tank mates for Amano Shrimp encompass Tetras, Barbs, Danios, Catfish, and freshwater Snails. It is recommended to maintain the shrimp in odd-numbered groups, with a higher proportion of females to males to mitigate potential dominance conflicts.
An optimal aquarium arrangement for Amano Shrimp entails the incorporation of live aquarium plants, as they serve multiple purposes such as providing shelter, grazing areas, and climbing surfaces for the shrimp. Complementing this, driftwood roots or branches can be introduced to furnish additional hiding places and supplementary grazing zones.
Amano Shrimp have unique glass-like bodies, with light brown, green, or reddish-brown hues, solid dots and dashes that run the entire length of their body, and a narrow whitish-cream coloured stripe that runs from head to tail. Their eyes are black, and they have lengthy antennae, which adds to their visual appeal. Overall, Amano Shrimp are an excellent addition to any aquarium, offering both beauty and practicality. Their hardiness and adaptability make them a suitable option for novice and experienced aquarists alike.
Amano Shrimp Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Sexing Amano Shrimp can be challenging, as the differences between males and females are relatively subtle. Typically, females have a larger and more rounded abdomen, while males have a straighter, narrower body shape. In general, females are significantly larger than males.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Caridina multidentata |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1860 |
| Other Names | Algae Eating Shrimp, Yamato Shrimp, Japonica, Japanese shrimp |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Malacostraca |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Family | Atyidae |
| Genus | Caridina |
| Origins | Japan , Taiwan , Philippines , China , Fiji , Madagascar |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | NA |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Ovoviviparous |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 3 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6 .5 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| KH | 1 - 10 |
| TDS | 100 - 450 |
| ℉ | 70 - 80 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 21 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
Amano Shrimp, originally native to the Ogasawara Islands in Micronesia, south of Tokyo, Japan, have expanded their habitat to include regions such as Taiwan, the Ryukyu Islands, Fiji, and Madagascar. They predominantly inhabit freshwater streams, rivers, marshes, and swamps, where they forage on aquatic plants and algae in soft substrates.
During breeding seasons, Amano shrimp exhibit a fascinating behavior of migrating to brackish or saltwater environments. This migration is essential for the survival of their larvae, which require saltier conditions during their initial developmental stages. Introducing Amano shrimp into aquariums not only showcases their distinctive beauty but also supports conservation initiatives aimed at preserving their natural habitats.
Breeding
Breeding Amano Shrimp in a home aquarium can be challenging, but it is a rewarding experience for the determined aquarist. However, raising the young beyond the larvae stage of development requires patience and specific care. To breed Amano Shrimp, the water parameters must be stable and the environment safe, with slightly higher temperatures than usual and brackish water.
Although natural mating is typical, breeding requires careful attention, and young shrimp must be raised in a separate tank with optimal conditions. The female Amano Shrimp can lay anywhere between 1000-3000 eggs, which remain on her swimmerets below the stomach until they are ready to hatch. The eggs are evident, changing from green to yellowish-brown, and hatching can take up to five weeks.
Diet & Feeding
Amano Shrimp are recognized for their ease of feeding, readily consuming a diverse array of algae and organic detritus, including fish waste and decaying plant matter. However, to ensure a balanced diet, it is imperative to offer supplementary dried foods such as pellets and algae wafers, along with fresh green vegetables. Additionally, incorporating moss balls and sponge filters into the aquarium proves beneficial, as these structures effectively collect fine food particles, providing the shrimp with additional feeding opportunities while contributing to overall tank cleanliness.
Frequently asked questions
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