Compatibility Overview
Angelfish and Cherry Shrimp are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
| Factor | Angelfish | Cherry Shrimp | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–84°F | 65–80°F | ✅ 74–80°F |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 6.5–8.0 | ✅ 6.5–7.5 |
| Temperament | semi | peaceful | ⚠️ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 6 in | 0.8 in | ❌ 8× difference |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 10+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
❌ Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Angelfish — Pterophyllum scalare
Elegant South American cichlids with long flowing fins. Generally peaceful but territorial when breeding and will eat very small fish.
Cherry Shrimp — Neocaridina davidi
Bright red freshwater shrimp that are excellent algae cleaners. Very small — at risk from any fish large enough to eat them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Angelfish live with Cherry Shrimp?
Generally not recommended. Angelfish and Cherry Shrimp are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
What tank size do I need for Angelfish and Cherry Shrimp together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Angelfish and Cherry Shrimp together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Angelfish and Cherry Shrimp?
74–80°F
Is a Angelfish aggressive toward a Cherry Shrimp?
Angelfish is semi and Cherry Shrimp is peaceful. Minor aggression possible from the semi-aggressive species; provide hiding spots.