Can Ghost Shrimp and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Ghost Shrimp and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) 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

Ghost Shrimp

Palaemonetes paludosus

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)

Melanoides tuberculata

🐟Family Group
Ghost Shrimp
Invertebrates
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Invertebrates
Temperament
Ghost Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
18–28°C
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
18–32°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
6.5–8
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
5–15
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
8–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
Low
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 23 L
Ghost Shrimp
19 L
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
5 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Ghost Shrimp
Bottom
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Ghost Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Nocturnal

Behaviour & Temperament

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

Ghost Shrimp 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 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 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 8–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Ghost Shrimp and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) 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: Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Sand (Sifters), Soil / Nutrient Rich. 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 Ghost Shrimp and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) live together?

Yes. Ghost Shrimp and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Ghost Shrimp and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) 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 Ghost Shrimp and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) 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 Ghost Shrimp or Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) aggressive?

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

What pH do Ghost Shrimp and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) need?

Both species overlap in the 7–8 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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