Can Cherry Shrimp live with Tiger Barb?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Cherry Shrimp and Tiger Barb Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperature margin is tight — only 2°F of safe overlap, which leaves little room for thermostat drift.
Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
| Adult Size: | 1.2" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 5 gal |
| Temperature: | 64-76°F |
| pH Range: | 6.5-7.5 |
Tiger Barb
Puntigrus tetrazona
| Adult Size: | 3.0" |
| Temperament: | semi-aggressive |
| Min Tank: | 20 gal |
| Temperature: | 74-79°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.0 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Cherry Shrimp | Tiger Barb | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 64-76°F | 74-79°F | 2°F ✓ |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 | 6.0-7.0 | 0.5 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + semi-aggressive. Semi-aggressive → watch territory and feeding.
Score: 50.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 20 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 74°F and 76°F.
- pH: maintain 6.5 – 7.0.
- Hiding spots: essential for Cherry Shrimp — 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 20+ gallons:
Hang-on-back filter for barb tanks
Explore Related Checks
See what else works with these fish:
Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Cherry Shrimp 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.