Can Licorice Gourami and Riffle Shrimp Live Together?

Licorice Gourami is a peaceful species (2/10), while Riffle Shrimp is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Licorice Gourami may occasionally assert dominance over Riffle Shrimp.

Licorice Gourami and Riffle Shrimp both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and 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: Riffle Shrimp is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.5°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Licorice Gourami (3–6) and Riffle Shrimp (6.5–8) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 4–4 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Licorice Gourami and Riffle Shrimp together, plan for an aquarium of at least 50 litres with a minimum length of 45 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: Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

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

Licorice Gourami and Riffle Shrimp 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.