Can Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) and Forktail Blue-eye Live Together?
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) and Forktail Blue-eye are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Behaviour & Temperament
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) is a peaceful species (0/10), while Forktail Blue-eye is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Forktail Blue-eye may occasionally assert dominance over Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black).
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) and Forktail Blue-eye both frequent the 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.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.
Worth noting: Forktail Blue-eye is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) (5.5–6.8) and Forktail Blue-eye (7–8) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–6 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
Tank Setup
To house Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) and Forktail Blue-eye together, plan for an aquarium of at least 66 litres with a minimum length of 60 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: Soil / Nutrient Rich, Plants - Densely covered, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Established Algae (Otocinclus). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) and Forktail Blue-eye live together?▾
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) and Forktail Blue-eye need?▾
A minimum of 66 litres (tank length at least 60 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 Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) and Forktail Blue-eye together?▾
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 24°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) or Forktail Blue-eye aggressive?▾
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) is peaceful (0/10) and Forktail Blue-eye is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) and Forktail Blue-eye need?▾
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black) prefers 5.5–6.8, while Forktail Blue-eye needs 7–8. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
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