Can mollies and cherry shrimp live together?
With care
Mollies and cherry shrimp can share a tank, but there is something to watch.
Why
- Mollies eat baby shrimp and may pick at adult cherry shrimp. Dense plants and moss help a colony survive.
What each one needs
| Molly | Cherry shrimp | Both | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F (22–28°C) | 65–80°F (18–27°C) | 72–80°F (22–27°C) |
| pH | 7.5–8.5 | 6.5–8.0 | 7.5–8.0 |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal (76 L) | 5 gal (19 L) | 20 gal (76 L) |
| Keep at least | 3 | 6 | |
| Adult size | 4 in (10.2 cm) | 1.2 in (3 cm) |
The smallest tank for both
A 20 gallons (76 L) tank holds 3 mollies and 6 cherry shrimp at about 48% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.