Amano Shrimp: The Algae-Eating Powerhouse for Planted Tanks

Amano shrimp have a well-earned reputation as one of the hardest-working algae crews in the hobby. If you're fighting algae in a planted tank, a group of these is often more effective than any product on the shelf.

Why Amano Shrimp Matter

Unlike cherry shrimp, which mostly graze biofilm, Amano shrimp will actively tackle tougher algae types — including some hair and thread algae that other cleanup crews leave alone. A group of 5-6 in a moderately sized tank can make a visible dent in an algae problem within a couple of weeks.

What They Need From Your Plants

Amano shrimp spend a lot of time grazing on leaf surfaces and mossy textures, so plants with more surface area to explore — broad leaves, dense moss, fine-leaved stems — give them more to work with. Java Moss in particular is a favorite grazing surface, since it holds biofilm and algae in its dense structure.

Tank Considerations

Amano shrimp are peaceful and completely plant-safe — they eat algae and biofilm, not living plant tissue, so they're a good addition to almost any planted tank. They do best in established tanks rather than brand-new ones, since a freshly cycled tank often doesn't have enough algae and biofilm built up yet to keep them fed.

A Good Starting Point

If you're adding Amano shrimp to help with algae, give them somewhere to work — Java Moss is an easy, low-maintenance plant that builds up exactly the kind of biofilm-rich surface Amano shrimp love to graze.

Keep Reading

• The Hygrophila Care Guide
• 10 Must-Have Freshwater Fishes & Shrimp for Your Planted Aquarium