Can Cherry Barb live with Coral Beauty Angelfish?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Cherry Barb and Coral Beauty Angelfish Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperament combination (peaceful+semi-aggressive) can work, but you will need to watch them at feeding time for the first week.
Cherry Barb
Puntius titteya
| Adult Size: | 2.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 15 gal |
| Temperature: | 73-81°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
Coral Beauty Angelfish
Centropyge loriculus
| Adult Size: | 4.0" |
| Temperament: | semi-aggressive |
| Min Tank: | 30 gal |
| Temperature: | 74-82°F |
| pH Range: | 8.1-8.4 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Cherry Barb | Coral Beauty Angelfish | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73-81°F | 74-82°F | 7°F ✓ |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 | 8.1-8.4 | No overlap ✗ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + semi-aggressive. Semi-aggressive → watch territory and feeding.
⚠️ Size Predation Risk: Cherry Barb (2.0") vs Coral Beauty Angelfish (4.0"). A 2.0" gap — the larger fish will view the smaller fish as food.
Score: 60/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 30 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 74°F and 81°F.
- pH: no shared range. One species will be outside its tolerance regardless of what you set.
- Hiding spots: essential for Cherry Barb — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 30+ gallons:
Frozen food formula for marine angelfish
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Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Cherry Barb may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.