Can Cherry Shrimp and Neon Blue Goby Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Cherry Shrimp and Neon Blue Goby 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 69 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Cherry Shrimp

Neocaridina davidi

Neon Blue Goby

Stiphodon atropurpureus

🐠Family Group
Cherry Shrimp
Invertebrates
Neon Blue Goby
Gobies & Gudgeons
Temperament
Cherry Shrimp
Peaceful (0/10)
Neon Blue Goby
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
18–28°C
Neon Blue Goby
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
6.5–8
Neon Blue Goby
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
6–15
Neon Blue Goby
4–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Cherry Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Neon Blue Goby
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✗ No overlap
Cherry Shrimp
Low
Neon Blue Goby
High
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 69 L
Cherry Shrimp
19 L
Neon Blue Goby
57 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Cherry Shrimp
BottomMiddle
Neon Blue Goby
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Cherry Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Neon Blue Goby
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerDigger (Disturbs Substrate)Territorial (Defends specific area)Aggressive to same species/look-alikes

Behaviour & Temperament

Cherry Shrimp is a peaceful species (0/10), while Neon Blue Goby is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Neon Blue Goby may occasionally assert dominance over Cherry Shrimp.

Cherry Shrimp and Neon Blue Goby 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 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 6.5 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 6–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Cherry Shrimp and Neon Blue Goby together, plan for an aquarium of at least 69 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: Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Cherry Shrimp prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Neon Blue Goby needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Cherry Shrimp and Neon Blue Goby live together?

Yes. Cherry Shrimp and Neon Blue Goby 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 Neon Blue Goby need?

A minimum of 69 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 Cherry Shrimp and Neon Blue Goby 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 Cherry Shrimp or Neon Blue Goby aggressive?

Cherry Shrimp is peaceful (0/10) and Neon Blue Goby is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Cherry Shrimp and Neon Blue Goby need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

How do I manage Neon Blue Goby's territorial behaviour?

Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Neon Blue Goby space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.


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