Amano vs Cherry Shrimp: Which Is Better for Algae?
Amano shrimp and cherry shrimp are two of the most popular algae eaters in the hobby. They do different jobs, though, and the right pick depends on your tank and what kind of algae you’re fighting.
Here’s how they compare.
Quick Answer
- For stubborn algae (hair algae, thread algae): Amano shrimp are the stronger algae eaters.
- For everyday biofilm and a colony that grows on its own: cherry shrimp (Neocaridina) are the better pick.
- For the best of both: many keepers use some of each.
Amano Shrimp at a Glance
Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata) were made famous by aquascaper Takashi Amano. They’re larger than cherry shrimp, often around 1.5–2 inches, with a mostly clear body and small dots or dashes.
Strengths:
- Widely regarded as one of the best shrimp for hair and thread algae.
- Bigger, so they’re less likely to be eaten by small community fish.
- Can’t overpopulate, because their larvae need brackish water to survive.
Trade-offs:
- Not very colorful.
- Won’t build a colony in a freshwater tank.
- Can be bold at feeding time and grab food from smaller tank mates.
- Known escape artists, so a lid helps.
Coming soon: We’re getting Amano shrimp ready at Space City Shrimp. Keep an eye on our shop.
Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina) at a Glance
Neocaridina davidi come in lots of colors: Bloody Mary, Blue Dream, Yellow 24K, Orange Sunkist, Green Jade and more.
Strengths:
- Constant grazers of biofilm, soft algae and leftovers.
- Breed readily in freshwater, so a small group grows into a colony.
- Small enough to clean moss and fine-leaf plants.
- Add lots of color.
Trade-offs:
- Individually less effective than Amanos on hair algae.
- Small fish may eat babies (and sometimes adults).
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Â | Amano shrimp | Cherry shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| Hair/thread algae | Strong | Light |
| Biofilm and soft algae | Good | Very good |
| Breeds in freshwater | No | Yes |
| Size | Larger | Smaller |
| Color | Clear/gray | Many colors |
| Best for | Fixing an algae problem | Ongoing cleaning and color |
These comparisons are based on what experienced keepers commonly report. Results vary with tank size, how many shrimp you keep and how much other food is available.
💡 Shrimp eat less algae when they’re well fed. If you’re relying on them for algae control, go easy on other food.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Amanos If…
- You have visible hair or thread algae.
- Your tank has small community fish that might eat smaller shrimp.
- You don’t want shrimp multiplying.
Choose Cherry Shrimp If…
- You want color and a colony you can watch grow.
- Your main need is biofilm and general cleanup.
- You have a shrimp-only or very peaceful nano tank.
Or Keep Both
Amanos and Neocaridina get along well, and they share similar water needs. Amanos handle the tougher algae while cherries keep surfaces clean and fill the tank with color.
Want a ready-made mix? Our Cleanup Crew Bundle pairs 10 Mixed Neocaridina with 3 Otocinclus and 2 Orange Poso rabbit snails.
Water Parameters
Both shrimp are hardy and do well in similar water. Commonly cited ranges:
- Temperature: about 68–78°F
- pH: about 6.5–7.8
- GH: moderate (many keepers run about 6–8 dGH or a bit higher for Neocaridina)
If your water is very soft, some keepers add crushed coral in a filter bag to add hardness for Neocaridina.
Shipping
We ship Monday through Wednesday, and shrimp are covered by our live arrival guarantee on any shipping method. See our Shipping & Return Policy.
FAQ
Do Amano shrimp eat more algae than cherry shrimp?
Per shrimp, yes. Amanos are widely considered stronger algae eaters, especially for hair and thread algae. A large cherry colony is very good at keeping biofilm and soft algae down.
Can Amano and cherry shrimp live together?
Yes. They’re both peaceful and like similar water. Amanos may push smaller shrimp away from food, so spread food around the tank.
Will Amano shrimp breed in my tank?
They’ll often carry eggs, but the larvae need brackish water to develop, so they won’t build a colony in a normal freshwater tank.
Do cherry shrimp eat black beard algae?
Generally not much. Black beard algae is tough for most shrimp. Fixing light, CO2 and nutrient balance usually matters more.
When will Space City Shrimp have Amanos?
They’re coming soon. Check our shop for updates.
