Can Butterfly Goodeid and Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) Live Together?

Butterfly Goodeid is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) is peaceful (0/10). This notable difference means Butterfly Goodeid may occasionally assert dominance over Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi).

Large aggression gap (6 points) between Butterfly Goodeid and Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Butterfly Goodeid prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) 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.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 26°C and 26°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 8.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

Hardness requirements are incompatible: Butterfly Goodeid needs 10–25 dGH while Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) requires 4–8 dGH.

To house Butterfly Goodeid and Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 80 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

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 - lighly covered, Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters). 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.

Butterfly Goodeid and Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.