Can Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Rummynose Rasbora Live Together?

Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) is a peaceful species (0/10), while Rummynose Rasbora is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Rummynose Rasbora may occasionally assert dominance over Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi).

In terms of spatial distribution, Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Rummynose Rasbora occupies the Middle (Open Water) 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.

There is no temperature overlap between Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) (26–30°C) and Rummynose Rasbora (20–25°C). This fundamental mismatch makes long-term cohabitation impractical.

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: Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) needs 4–8 dGH while Rummynose Rasbora requires 10–20 dGH.

To house Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Rummynose Rasbora together, plan for an aquarium of at least 60 litres with a minimum length of 60 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), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters), Plants - Densely covered. 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.

Cardinal Shrimp (Sulawesi) and Rummynose Rasbora 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.