Can Black Skirt Tetra and Ghost Shrimp Live Together?

Black Skirt Tetra is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Ghost Shrimp is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Black Skirt Tetra may occasionally assert dominance over Ghost Shrimp.

In terms of spatial distribution, Black Skirt Tetra prefers the Middle (Open Water) zone, whereas Ghost Shrimp occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 20°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Black Skirt Tetra and Ghost Shrimp 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: Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. 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.