Can kuhli loaches and cherry barbs live together?
Yes
Kuhli loaches and cherry barbs can share a tank. Their water needs overlap and neither is known to bother the other.
Why
- Their temperature and pH ranges overlap comfortably, and neither is known to nip, chase or eat the other.
What each one needs
| Kuhli loach | Cherry barb | Both | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–86°F (24–30°C) | 73–81°F (23–27°C) | 75–81°F (24–27°C) |
| pH | 5.5–7.0 | 6.0–7.5 | 6.0–7.0 |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal (76 L) | 20 gal (76 L) | 20 gal (76 L) |
| Keep at least | 5 | 6 | |
| Adult size | 4 in (10.2 cm) | 2 in (5.1 cm) |
The smallest tank for both
A 20 gallons (76 L) tank holds 5 kuhli loaches and 6 cherry barbs at about 74% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.