Can Amano Shrimp and Rosy Barb Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Amano Shrimp and Rosy Barb are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 132 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Amano Shrimp

Caridina multidentata

Rosy Barb

Pethia conchonius

🐠Family Group
Amano Shrimp
Invertebrates
Rosy Barb
Cyprinids
Temperament
Amano Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Rosy Barb
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
18–28°C
Rosy Barb
18–25°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
6–7.5
Rosy Barb
6–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
4–14
Rosy Barb
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Rosy Barb
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Amano Shrimp
Moderate
Rosy Barb
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 132 L
Amano Shrimp
38 L
Rosy Barb
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Amano Shrimp
BottomMiddle
Rosy Barb
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Amano Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Rosy Barb
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFin NipperAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Plant Destroyer

Behaviour & Temperament

Amano Shrimp is a peaceful species (1/10), while Rosy Barb is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Rosy Barb may occasionally assert dominance over Amano Shrimp.

Amano Shrimp and Rosy Barb 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.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 18°C and 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 21.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 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 4–14 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Amano Shrimp and Rosy Barb together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 80 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

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

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Rosy Barb is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Amano Shrimp's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

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 Rosy Barb live together?

Yes. Amano Shrimp and Rosy Barb are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Amano Shrimp and Rosy Barb need?

A minimum of 132 litres (tank length at least 80 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 Rosy Barb together?

Keep the aquarium between 18°C and 25°C. A target of around 21.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Amano Shrimp or Rosy Barb aggressive?

Amano Shrimp is peaceful (1/10) and Rosy Barb is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Amano Shrimp and Rosy Barb need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Will Rosy Barb nip Amano Shrimp's fins?

Rosy Barb is a known fin nipper. If Amano Shrimp has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Rosy Barb in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.


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