AMANO SHRIMP

Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata) are popular freshwater shrimp known for their algae-eating abilities and peaceful nature. Here’s a guide on how to care for them:   

 Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended, especially if keeping a group.
• Substrate: Use fine gravel or sand. Amano shrimp appreciate a planted tank as it provides hiding places and surfaces to graze on.
• Plants: Include live plants like Java moss, Anubias, or Java fern. These not only provide cover but also offer additional grazing surfaces for biofilm and algae.
• Decor: Include rocks, driftwood, and other decorations to provide hiding spots. Amano shrimp are more comfortable and show natural behavior in a well-decorated environment.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68-78°F (20-25°C). They prefer slightly cooler water than some tropical fish.
• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.5 and 7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, with a GH of 4-8 dGH.
• Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate: Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0 ppm. Nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm.

Feeding

• Algae: Amano shrimp are excellent algae eaters, and will consume various types of algae, including hair algae.
• Supplemental Food: When algae are scarce, provide blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach), algae wafers, or shrimp-specific pellets.
• Variety: Offer a balanced diet with occasional protein sources like boiled fish, bloodworms, or shrimp pellets.