Can Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire Shrimp Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire 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 90 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Peacock Gudgeon

Tateurndina ocellicauda

Vampire Shrimp

Atya gabonensis

🐠Family Group
Peacock Gudgeon
Gobies & Gudgeons
Vampire Shrimp
Invertebrates
Temperament
Peacock Gudgeon
Peaceful (2/10)
Vampire Shrimp
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Peacock Gudgeon
22–26°C
Vampire Shrimp
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Peacock Gudgeon
6.5–7.5
Vampire Shrimp
6.5–7.8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Peacock Gudgeon
5–10
Vampire Shrimp
6–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Peacock Gudgeon
Freshwater Only
Vampire Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✗ No overlap
Peacock Gudgeon
Low
Vampire Shrimp
High
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 90 L
Peacock Gudgeon
40 L
Vampire Shrimp
75 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Peacock Gudgeon
MiddleBottom
Vampire Shrimp
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Peacock Gudgeon
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry Predator
Vampire Shrimp
Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Nocturnal

Behaviour & Temperament

Peacock Gudgeon is a peaceful species (2/10), while Vampire Shrimp is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Peacock Gudgeon may occasionally assert dominance over Vampire Shrimp.

Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire 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.

Worth noting: Vampire Shrimp 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 24°C and 26°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 6–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire 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 - Densely covered, Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Peacock Gudgeon prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Vampire Shrimp 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 Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire Shrimp live together?

Yes. Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire Shrimp are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire 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 Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire Shrimp together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 26°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Peacock Gudgeon or Vampire Shrimp aggressive?

Peacock Gudgeon is peaceful (2/10) and Vampire Shrimp is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Peacock Gudgeon and Vampire Shrimp 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.

Does Vampire Shrimp being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Vampire Shrimp 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 Vampire Shrimp during evening hours.


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