Australian Amano Shrimp (Caridina typus)

A hardy Australian Amano-type wild Caridina shrimp for planted tanks, biofilm grazing, and natural freshwater aquariums.

Australian Amano Shrimp, Caridina typus, is a unique Amano-type shrimp known for its natural wild appearance, active grazing behavior, and strong adaptability in mature freshwater aquariums.

Compared with classic True Amano Shrimp, Australian Amano Shrimp are better positioned as hardy natural grazers and ecosystem helpers rather than the strongest possible algae-removal shrimp. They are excellent for biofilm, soft algae, leftover food, and natural planted tank balance.

Why this shrimp stands out

• Unique Australian Amano-type shrimp
• Hardy wild Caridina species
• Active grazer for biofilm, soft algae, and leftover food
• Natural appearance for planted and biotope-style tanks
• Peaceful cleanup crew for stable freshwater aquariums

Best for

• Natural planted aquariums
• Biofilm-rich shrimp tanks
• Low-maintenance cleanup crews
• Wild-type Caridina collectors
• Aquarists looking for something different from standard Amano Shrimp

Topick Aquarium Insight

Australian Amano Shrimp should be treated as a natural ecosystem helper, not just an algae removal tool. They are useful, hardy, and active, but classic True Amano Shrimp remains the stronger choice if your only goal is maximum algae control.

Choose Caridina typus if you want a unique Amano-type shrimp with natural behavior, strong adaptability, and collector appeal.

Behavior & Group Size

Australian Amano Shrimp are peaceful and active. They do best in groups where they can constantly graze surfaces throughout the aquarium.

For most planted tanks, a group of 5 or more is recommended for visible activity and better cleanup coverage.

Tank Setup

• Mature aquarium preferred
• Plants, moss, driftwood, and stones provide grazing surfaces
• Stable filtration and oxygenation
• Secure lid recommended
• Avoid copper-based medications

Like most shrimp, they should not be added to unstable, freshly set up aquariums.

Water Parameters

• Scientific Name: Caridina typus
• Common Names: Australian Amano Shrimp, Amano-type Shrimp, Wild Caridina Shrimp
• Temperature: 20–27°C
• pH: 6.5–8.0
• Adult Size: approximately 2.5–4 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Omnivore / biofilm and algae grazer
• Care Level: Easy to Intermediate

Stable, mature water is more important than chasing exact numbers. Australian Amano Shrimp are adaptable, but sudden parameter swings should be avoided.

Feeding

• Biofilm and soft algae
• Decaying plant matter
• Leftover fish food
• Shrimp pellets
• Algae wafers

In very clean aquariums, supplement feeding is recommended. Do not rely on algae alone if the tank is already spotless.

Tank Mates

Best kept with peaceful fish that will not hunt shrimp.

• Small tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras
• Peaceful livebearers
• Other peaceful shrimp species

Avoid puffers, larger cichlids, predatory fish, and aggressive bottom dwellers.

Important Note

Australian Amano Shrimp are often compared to classic Amano Shrimp, but they should not be viewed as the exact same animal. If your main goal is the strongest possible algae removal, choose True Amano Shrimp. If you want a hardy, interesting, natural Amano-type shrimp, Caridina typus is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is Australian Amano Shrimp the same as regular Amano Shrimp?
No. Australian Amano Shrimp are Caridina typus, a different Amano-type Caridina shrimp.

Are they good algae eaters?
Yes. They graze biofilm, soft algae, decaying plant matter, and leftover food. However, True Amano Shrimp are still our strongest algae-control option.

Will they breed in freshwater?
Like many Amano-type shrimp, reproduction is not straightforward in normal freshwater aquariums and may require special larval conditions.

Are they good for planted tanks?
Yes. They are peaceful, active, and useful in mature planted aquariums.