Candidate
Cherry shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
Open full care profile →Photo identification · reviewed 2026-07-31
Cherry shrimp vs Amano shrimp
Adult size, opacity and side markings distinguish a domestic dwarf shrimp from the larger Amano shrimp.
Candidate
Amano shrimp
Caridina multidentata
Open full care profile →Interactive observation guide
Inspect one clue at a time
Use the photographs above, then select each clue. Do not make an identification from one feature alone.
Cherry shrimp are usually smaller and carry solid or patchy red pigment in common domestic grades.
Care reality check
Compare the adult requirements
A visual identification changes which limits you should plan around.
| Requirement | Cherry shrimp | Amano shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 2–3 cm | 4–6 cm |
| Minimum tank | 20 L · 30 cm | 30 L · 45 cm |
| Temperature | 18–27°C | 20–27°C |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 6–7.8 |
| GH | 6–20 dGH | 4–15 dGH |
| Social minimum | 6 | 4 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful |
Visible differences
Clues to inspect
- Cherry shrimp are usually smaller and carry solid or patchy red pigment in common domestic grades.
- Amano shrimp are larger, grey-translucent and marked with rows of dots or dashes.
- Wild-type cherry shrimp may be brown and translucent, so size and pattern become more useful than red colour.
Shared traits
Why they are confused
- Both browse biofilm and need stable, mature water.
- Both can disappear quickly when housed with fish able to swallow them.
Why it matters
Do not stop at the name
Cherry shrimp can form a freshwater breeding colony; Amano larvae require brackish development and adults need more room.
Uncertainty
When a photo is not enough
Low-grade or stressed cherry shrimp may lose colour. Exact size is hard to judge without a reference object.