Can cherry shrimp live with otocinclus?

Yes, they make good tankmates. Good tankmates. Keep both at 72–79°F.

By Andy · Updated October 31, 2026 · Tankmate guide

Yes, they make good tankmates. Good tankmates. Keep both at 72–79°F.

Yes

Verdict

72–79°F

Shared temperature

20 gal

Smallest tank

The two fish side by side

Fish	Adult size	Temperature	Min. tank	Keep	Watch for
Cherry shrimp	1 in	65–80°F	5 gal	10 or more	invertebrate
Otocinclus	1.75 in	72–79°F	20 gal	6 or more	peaceful

Set the heater to about 76°F, in the middle of the range they share (72–79°F).
Use a tank of at least 20 gallons. Check the numbers with the stocking calculator.
Keep cherry shrimp in a group of 10 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
Keep otocinclus in a group of 6 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
Otocinclus feed on the bottom, so drop in sinking pellets or wafers after the lights go out.
Add plenty of moss and plants so baby shrimp have places to hide.
Add plenty of plants and cover so every fish can get out of sight.

For cherry shrimp: Guppy, Neon tetra, Amano shrimp, Bristlenose pleco, Cardinal tetra, Cherry barb
For otocinclus: Betta (male), Amano shrimp, Black skirt tetra, Bristlenose pleco, Cardinal tetra, Cherry barb

Want to check a whole tank? Pick up to 8 fish in the fish compatibility checker, which opens with this pair already filled in.

Planning a whole tank? Your First Aquarium includes ready-made stocking plans and care cards for 15 beginner fish. Get the guide for $12