What Fish Won't Eat Amano Shrimp?

While no fish can be guaranteed 100% safe with all sizes of shrimp, especially concerning tiny shrimp fry, some fish species are significantly less likely to prey on adult Amano shrimp due to their size and temperament. Notably, the Otocinclus Catfish stands out as one of the very few fish species that are highly unlikely to prey on even shrimp fry.

Understanding Compatibility with Amano Shrimp

Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata) are larger than many dwarf shrimp species, which offers them a degree of protection from predation by small, peaceful fish once they reach adulthood. However, their newly hatched fry are minuscule and highly vulnerable to nearly any fish in an aquarium. A heavily planted tank is exceptionally beneficial in offsetting predation, providing crucial hiding spots for both adult shrimp during their vulnerable molting periods and for the delicate young.

When selecting tank mates for Amano shrimp, consider these crucial factors:

• Size: The ideal fish should be too small to view an adult Amano shrimp as a meal.
• Mouth Size: Even a seemingly peaceful fish can consume a shrimp if its mouth is large enough to fit the shrimp.
• Temperament: Aggressive, territorial, or overtly predatory fish are unsuitable companions. Opt for calm, schooling species.
• Diet: Fish with a primarily herbivorous or omnivorous diet, focused on algae or very small invertebrates, are generally safer choices.

Fish Generally Considered Safe for Amano Shrimp

Here is a list of fish species commonly kept successfully with adult Amano shrimp. It's important to remember that individual fish behavior can vary, and the risk of predation on shrimp fry remains high for most, even those listed as "safe."

• Otocinclus Catfish
  • These tiny, peaceful, algae-eating catfish are exceptionally safe for shrimp of all sizes. They are known for their minimal risk to even shrimp fry, making them one of the most highly recommended companions.
• Small Tetras (e.g., Neon Tetra, Ember Tetra, Green Neon Tetra)
  • These popular schooling fish are typically peaceful and have small mouths, making adult Amano shrimp safe. However, they may opportunistically prey on shrimp fry if encountered.
• Rasboras (e.g., Harlequin Rasbora, Chili Rasbora, Phoenix Rasbora)
  • Similar to small tetras, rasboras are peaceful, schooling fish whose mouths are generally too small for adult Amano shrimp. Fry, however, are still at risk.
• Corydoras Catfish (e.g., Pygmy Corydoras, Salt and Pepper Corydoras)
  • These peaceful, bottom-dwelling scavengers are generally safe with Amano shrimp. Pygmy Corydoras, being particularly small, pose very little threat even to dwarf shrimp, making them an excellent choice for Amano shrimp.
• Small Bristlenose Plecos
  • While they grow larger than Otocinclus, Bristlenose Plecos are primarily herbivorous and focus on algae, posing no threat to shrimp.
• Kuhli Loaches
  • These shy, nocturnal, bottom-dwelling fish are peaceful and mainly feed on detritus and small invertebrates. Their mouths are too small to consume adult Amano shrimp, though fry might be vulnerable.
• Guppies/Endlers Livebearers
  • Though generally peaceful and hardy, these active fish may opportunistically consume shrimp fry. They are typically safe for adult Amano shrimp.

Fish to Avoid with Amano Shrimp

Many common aquarium fish are unsuitable tank mates for Amano shrimp due to their predatory nature or size. This list is not exhaustive but includes frequent examples:

• Cichlids: Such as Angelfish, Discus, and Convict Cichlids.
• Larger Barbs: Including Tiger Barbs.
• Betta Fish: Siamese Fighting Fish, known for their territorial and predatory tendencies.
• Larger Gouramis: Like Opaline or Gold Gouramis.
• Goldfish: Known for eating anything that fits in their mouths.
• Most Medium to Large Predatory Fish: Any fish capable of consuming an adult Amano shrimp.

Creating an Optimal Shrimp-Friendly Environment

To further enhance the safety and well-being of your Amano shrimp:

• Dense Planting: A heavily planted aquarium provides numerous hiding spots. Plants such as Java Moss, Anubias, and Christmas Moss are excellent for this purpose, especially during vulnerable molting periods and for protecting fry.
• Driftwood and Rocks: Incorporate these elements to create additional territories, hiding spots, and visual barriers that break up the line of sight for potential predators.
• Adequate Feeding: Ensure all aquarium inhabitants are well-fed to minimize the likelihood of fish preying on shrimp out of hunger.
• Quarantine New Fish: Always quarantine new fish in a separate tank before introducing them to your main aquarium to prevent the spread of diseases.

While establishing a safe environment for adult Amano shrimp is achievable, it is challenging to ensure the survival of their fry in a community tank with most fish. The Otocinclus Catfish remains an exception for its documented low risk to shrimp fry.

Summary Table of Compatible Fish