Can ghost shrimp live with cherry shrimp?

Yes, with care. Ghost shrimp may grab baby shrimp and tiny fish. Adults are usually fine with plenty of moss.

By Andy · Updated November 6, 2026 · Tankmate guide

Yes, with care. Ghost shrimp may grab baby shrimp and tiny fish. Adults are usually fine with plenty of moss.

With care

Verdict

65–80°F

Shared temperature

5 gal

Smallest tank

The two fish side by side

Fish	Adult size	Temperature	Min. tank	Keep	Watch for
Ghost shrimp	1.5 in	65–82°F	5 gal	3 or more	invertebrate
Cherry shrimp	1 in	65–80°F	5 gal	10 or more	invertebrate

Set the heater to about 72°F, in the middle of the range they share (65–80°F).
Use a tank of at least 5 gallons, and bigger is calmer. Check the numbers with the stocking calculator.
Keep ghost shrimp in a group of 3 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
Keep cherry shrimp in a group of 10 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
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 ghost shrimp: African dwarf frog, Amano shrimp, Black neon tetra, Black skirt tetra, Bristlenose pleco, Cardinal tetra
For cherry shrimp: Chili rasbora, Guppy, Neon tetra, Otocinclus, Amano shrimp, Black neon tetra

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