Can Amano Shrimp and Blue Dolphin (Hap) Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Amano Shrimp and Blue Dolphin (Hap) together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels. Provide a spacious tank of at least 570 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Amano Shrimp

Caridina multidentata

Blue Dolphin (Hap)

Cyrtocara moorii

🐠Family Group
Amano Shrimp
Invertebrates
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Temperament
Amano Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
18–28°C
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
6–7.5
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
4–14
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
Moderate
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 570 L
Amano Shrimp
38 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Amano Shrimp
BottomMiddle
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Amano Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes

Behaviour & Temperament

Amano Shrimp is a peaceful species (1/10), while Blue Dolphin (Hap) is moderately assertive (5/10). This notable difference means Blue Dolphin (Hap) may occasionally assert dominance over Amano Shrimp.

Amano Shrimp and Blue Dolphin (Hap) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) and Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Worth noting: Amano Shrimp is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.5 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–14 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Amano Shrimp and Blue Dolphin (Hap) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 570 litres with a minimum length of 150 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - Densely covered, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Amano Shrimp and Blue Dolphin (Hap) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 570 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Amano Shrimp and Blue Dolphin (Hap) need?

A minimum of 570 litres (tank length at least 150 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Amano Shrimp and Blue Dolphin (Hap) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Amano Shrimp or Blue Dolphin (Hap) aggressive?

Amano Shrimp is peaceful (1/10) and Blue Dolphin (Hap) is moderately assertive (5/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Amano Shrimp and Blue Dolphin (Hap) need?

Both species overlap in the 7.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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