Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata), also known as Yamato Shrimp or Japanese Algae-Eater Shrimp, is a popular freshwater aquarium shrimp species known for its algae-eating habits and attractive appearance. Here are some key characteristics and care tips for Amano Shrimp:
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Appearance:
- Amano Shrimp have a transparent or semi-transparent body with distinctive dark markings and a light stripe along their dorsal side.
- They have a relatively long and slender body, reaching sizes of about 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 centimeters).
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Behavior:
- Amano Shrimp are known for their busy and active behavior. They are excellent algae eaters and constantly scavenge for food.
- These shrimp are generally peaceful and can be kept in community aquariums with other non-aggressive fish and invertebrates.
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Diet:
- Amano Shrimp are voracious algae eaters and are particularly effective at cleaning aquariums of various types of algae, including green algae and diatoms.
- While they primarily feed on algae and detritus, it's advisable to supplement their diet with commercial shrimp pellets or algae wafers.
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Tank Requirements:
- Amano Shrimp thrive in a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions.
- Provide hiding places such as plants, driftwood, or caves to make them feel secure.
- Ensure the aquarium has a tight-fitting lid, as Amano Shrimp are known to be skilled escape artists.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- Hardness: 5-15 dGH
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Compatibility:
- Amano Shrimp are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of community fish, as long as the fish are not aggressive or predatory.
- Avoid keeping them with larger, aggressive species that may prey on or intimidate them.
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Molting:
- Like other shrimp, Amanos undergo molting to grow. Providing a calcium source, such as crushed coral or cuttlebone, can aid in the molting process.
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Breeding Challenges:
- While Amano Shrimp will readily mate in aquariums, raising their larvae to adulthood is challenging. The larvae require brackish water conditions during their early stages, making successful breeding in a freshwater aquarium difficult.
Amano Shrimp are widely appreciated for their algae-cleaning abilities, making them popular additions to planted aquariums. Due to their effective algae-eating habits, they are often employed by aquarists as natural cleaners to maintain a healthy and aesthetically pleasing tank environment.