The Orange Amano Shrimp, also sold as the Sun Orange Amano Shrimp (Caridina multidentata), is a selectively bred colour variant of the classic translucent clear-gray Amano shrimp.

Unlike bright, solidly opaque orange Neocaridina (like Orange Pumpkin or Sunkist shrimp), the Orange Amano features a warm, translucent orange color wash. It also retains the characteristic dark rows of dots and dashes along its flanks.

Therefore, they provide a colourful twist to the hobby’s absolute best natural clean-up crew.

Key Characteristics:

• Size: They grow significantly larger than standard dwarf shrimp, reaching 4 to 6 cm in length.
• Algae Eating: They are voracious algae eaters, famous for consuming tough algae species that other shrimp avoid, including hair algae, string algae, and biofilm.
• Colour Stress Reaction: When stressed or shipped, their colour cells contract, causing them to temporarily lose their orange tint and look like standard clear Amanos. They regain their warm colour once acclimated to a stable aquarium.
• Lifespan: A robust, long-lived choice that typically survives for 2 to 3 years (and sometimes over 5 years) in ideal conditions.

Ideal Tank Parameters & Care:

Orange Amanos share identical care requirements with the wild-type Amano shrimp. In addition, they are highly adaptable and beginner-friendly. This makes them perfect for planted community aquariums.

• Parameter: Recommended Range
• Tank Size: Minimum 30 litres
• Temperature: 20°C – 27°C
• pH Level: 6.5 – 7.5
• Diet: Algae, biofilm, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables, and supplemental protein
• Temperament: Completely peaceful; ideal with community fish and dwarf shrimp

Important Considerations:

• Freshwater Breeding Is Impossible: While females will frequently carry hundreds of eggs in freshwater, the hatched larvae require brackish water (salinity around 15-20 ppt) to survive and develop. Because of this intricate cycle, they will not overpopulate your home aquarium.
• Escape Artists: Amanos are strong and active climbers. Ensure your aquarium has a tight-fitting lid or a drop-down waterline to prevent them from crawling out of the tank.