Can Cherry Shrimp and Ghost Shrimp Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Cherry Shrimp and Ghost Shrimp are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 23 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Cherry Shrimp

Neocaridina davidi

Ghost Shrimp

Palaemonetes paludosus

🐟Family Group
Cherry Shrimp
Invertebrates
Ghost Shrimp
Invertebrates
Temperament
Cherry Shrimp
Peaceful (0/10)
Ghost Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
18–28°C
Ghost Shrimp
18–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
6.5–8
Ghost Shrimp
6.5–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
6–15
Ghost Shrimp
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Ghost Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
Low
Ghost Shrimp
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 23 L
Cherry Shrimp
19 L
Ghost Shrimp
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Cherry Shrimp
BottomMiddle
Ghost Shrimp
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Cherry Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Ghost Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Cherry Shrimp is a peaceful species (0/10), while Ghost Shrimp is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Ghost Shrimp may occasionally assert dominance over Cherry Shrimp.

Cherry Shrimp and Ghost Shrimp 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.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 18°C and 28°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 6–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Cherry Shrimp and Ghost Shrimp together, plan for an aquarium of at least 23 litres with a minimum length of 30 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: Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Cherry Shrimp and Ghost Shrimp live together?

Yes. Cherry Shrimp 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 Cherry Shrimp and Ghost Shrimp need?

A minimum of 23 litres (tank length at least 30 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 Cherry Shrimp and Ghost Shrimp together?

Keep the aquarium between 18°C and 28°C. A target of around 23.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Cherry Shrimp or Ghost Shrimp aggressive?

Cherry Shrimp is peaceful (0/10) and Ghost Shrimp is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Cherry Shrimp and Ghost Shrimp need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


Related Comparisons