How to Tell Male and Female Amano Shrimp Apart
The Basics of Amano Shrimp Reproduction
The Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata) is a freshwater invertebrate, native to Japan, that has become a popular addition to many home aquariums. While these hardy creatures are relatively easy to care for, it can be difficult for newcomers to tell the difference between males and females. However, with a little observation and knowledge, it’s quite easy to tell them apart.
General Physical Appearance
One of the simplest ways to tell male and female Amano shrimp apart is by observing their general physical appearance. The males tend to be slightly larger than the females and also have a more slender body shape. The tail of the male is also more pointed, while the female’s tail is more rounded. Additionally, the male’s eyes are much larger than the female’s and the antennae are a bit longer.
White Spot
On the underside of the Amano shrimp’s tail, there is a small white spot that can be used to tell the difference between the male and female. The white spot on the male’s tail is generally much larger and more obvious than the female’s, though the female’s spot can still be seen with some observation. The male’s spot is usually a bit more oval-shaped than the female’s, which is usually more of a circle.
Females Have an Egg Sac
Another easy way to tell male and female Amano shrimp apart is by looking for the egg sac present in female shrimp. The female will carry the small, green egg sac underneath her abdomen, which can easily be seen when she is viewed from the side. The male shrimp will not have an egg sac.
Behavioral Differences
In addition to their physical differences, male and female Amano shrimp also exhibit different behaviors. The males tend to be more active, often darting around the aquarium and searching for food. Female shrimp, on the other hand, are usually more sedentary and can often be seen clinging to the glass of the aquarium or hiding among the plants. Of course, there is always some variation between individual shrimp, so it’s important to observe them carefully to be sure.