Yamato shrimp

Caridina multidentata (Syn.: Caridina japonica)

In adult specimens, the sex of the Yamato shrimp can be distinguished by their body markings: in males, the lateral spots are usually clearly separated from one another, whereas in females they sometimes merge to form elongated lines.

Red List

Least Concern

The Yamato shrimp is also known as the Amano shrimp. It is mainly found in southern Japan and Taiwan. It is very popular amongst aquarists as an algae-eater.

The adult Yamato shrimp lives in rivers. However, after hatching, its larvae are washed out to sea. From there, they migrate back to the rivers. The Yamato shrimp is non-toxic.

Taxonomy

freshwater shrimp (Atyidae), Caridina (over 260 species)

Habitat

rivers, as larvae in the sea

Diet

mainly algae

Body length

5 cm