Can Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) Live Together?
Keeping Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 38 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)?
Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.
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Behaviour & Temperament
Both Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) are peaceful species with an aggression score of 0/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.
Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) 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: Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 26°C and 30°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 28.0°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.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 8–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
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Tank Setup
To house Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 38 litres with a minimum length of 40 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.
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), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters), Soil / Nutrient Rich. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) requires Sand (Sifters), while Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) requires Soil / Nutrient Rich. These substrate types may be difficult to provide simultaneously. Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) requires Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), while Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) requires Soil / Nutrient Rich. These substrate types may be difficult to provide simultaneously. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.
Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS).
10 Gallon Standard
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) live together?
They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 38 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
What size tank do Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) need?
A minimum of 38 litres (tank length at least 40 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 Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) together?
Keep the aquarium between 26°C and 30°C. A target of around 28.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) or Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) aggressive?
Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) is peaceful (0/10) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) need?
Both species overlap in the 7.5–8.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
Does Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) being nocturnal affect compatibility?
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) during evening hours.
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