Can amano shrimp and otocincluses be kept together in a 10-gallon tank?

Yes. Ten gallons gives enough surface area for otocincluses to graze and enough biofilm for amano shrimp to scavenge.

Will amano shrimp eat otocinclus food or vice versa?

Otocincluses eat algae and biofilm. Amano shrimp eat algae, decaying plant matter, and leftover fish food. Some overlap is normal but neither depends on the other.

Can Amano Shrimp Live With Otocinclus?

By Alex WalshLast reviewed Apr 18, 2026

Yes

Yes, amano shrimp and otocincluses coexist in 10 gallons or larger since both are peaceful algae grazers that prefer the same water conditions.

Why

Amano shrimp grow to 2 inches and spend time on plants and hardscape. Otocincluses stay on glass and substrate at 2 inches.
Both tolerate 72-79F and pH 6.5-7.5 without stress.
Neither species defends territory or shows aggression toward the other.
Amano shrimp are skilled algae removers. Otocincluses are specialist glass cleaners. They target different surfaces.

Minimum shared tank

10 gallons

Shared temperature range

72-79°F

What could go wrong

Amano shrimp shed their exoskeleton periodically. A freshly molted shrimp is vulnerable and otocincluses may investigate the shed skin rather than the shrimp itself.