Can Celebes Rainbowfish and Ghost Shrimp Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Celebes Rainbowfish and Ghost Shrimp are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 90 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Celebes Rainbowfish

Marosatherina ladigesi

Ghost Shrimp

Palaemonetes paludosus

🐠Family Group
Celebes Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish
Ghost Shrimp
Invertebrates
Temperament
Celebes Rainbowfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Ghost Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
22–28°C
Ghost Shrimp
18–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
7–8.5
Ghost Shrimp
6.5–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
10–25
Ghost Shrimp
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
Brackish Tolerant
Ghost Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
Moderate
Ghost Shrimp
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 90 L
Celebes Rainbowfish
75 L
Ghost Shrimp
19 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Celebes Rainbowfish
TopMiddle
Ghost Shrimp
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Celebes Rainbowfish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Ghost Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Celebes Rainbowfish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Ghost Shrimp is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Celebes Rainbowfish may occasionally assert dominance over Ghost Shrimp.

In terms of spatial distribution, Celebes Rainbowfish prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, 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.

Worth noting: Celebes Rainbowfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 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 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Celebes Rainbowfish and Ghost Shrimp together, plan for an aquarium of at least 90 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 - lighly covered, 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Celebes Rainbowfish and Ghost Shrimp live together?

Yes. Celebes Rainbowfish and Ghost Shrimp are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Celebes Rainbowfish and Ghost Shrimp need?

A minimum of 90 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 Celebes Rainbowfish and Ghost Shrimp together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Celebes Rainbowfish or Ghost Shrimp aggressive?

Celebes Rainbowfish is peaceful (2/10) and Ghost Shrimp is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Celebes Rainbowfish and Ghost Shrimp need?

Both species overlap in the 7–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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