Can kuhli loaches live with cherry shrimp?

Yes, with care. Kuhli loaches eat baby cherry shrimp. Adults usually survive with plenty of moss to hide in.

By Andy · Updated October 31, 2026 · Tankmate guide

Yes, with care. Kuhli loaches eat baby cherry shrimp. Adults usually survive with plenty of moss to hide in.

With care

Verdict

75–80°F

Shared temperature

20 gal

Smallest tank

The two fish side by side

Fish	Adult size	Temperature	Min. tank	Keep	Watch for
Kuhli loach	4 in	75–86°F	20 gal	5 or more	peaceful
Cherry shrimp	1 in	65–80°F	5 gal	10 or more	invertebrate

Set the heater to about 78°F, in the middle of the range they share (75–80°F).
Use a tank of at least 20 gallons, and bigger is calmer. Check the numbers with the stocking calculator.
Keep kuhli loaches in a group of 5 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.
Kuhli loaches 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 kuhli loaches: Amano shrimp, Angelfish, Black skirt tetra, Bristlenose pleco, Cardinal tetra, Cherry barb
For cherry shrimp: Guppy, Neon tetra, Otocinclus, Amano shrimp, Bristlenose pleco, Cardinal 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