Can tiger barbs and cherry shrimp live together?
With care
Tiger barbs and cherry shrimp can share a tank, but there is something to watch.
Why
- Tiger barbs eat baby shrimp and may pick at adult cherry shrimp. Dense plants and moss help a colony survive.
What each one needs
| Tiger barb | Cherry shrimp | Both | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 68–79°F (20–26°C) | 65–80°F (18–27°C) | 68–79°F (20–26°C) |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 | 6.5–8.0 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal (76 L) | 5 gal (19 L) | 20 gal (76 L) |
| Keep at least | 6 | 6 | |
| Adult size | 2.8 in (7.1 cm) | 1.2 in (3 cm) |
The smallest tank for both
A 20 gallons (76 L) tank holds 6 tiger barbs and 6 cherry shrimp at about 63% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.