Compatibility Overview
Blue Tang 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 | Blue Tang | Cherry Shrimp | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–81°F | 65–80°F | ✅ 75–80°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 | 6.5–8.0 | ❌ No overlap |
| Temperament | semi | peaceful | ⚠️ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 5.9 in | 0.8 in | ❌ 7× difference |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 10+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
❌ Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Blue Tang — Aquarium species
The Blue Tang is a popular saltwater fish known for its vibrant blue color and yellow stripes. These fish are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive species. They require a well-maintained, spacious tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. Regular water changes and proper nutrition are essential for their
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 Blue Tang live with Cherry Shrimp?
Generally not recommended. Blue Tang 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 Blue Tang and Cherry Shrimp together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Blue Tang and Cherry Shrimp together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Blue Tang and Cherry Shrimp?
75–80°F
Is a Blue Tang aggressive toward a Cherry Shrimp?
Blue Tang is semi and Cherry Shrimp is peaceful. These animals require different water types and cannot share one aquarium.
Related Compatibility Guides
Compatibility score breakdown
The overall score is weighted across water chemistry, behavior, adult size, swimming zone, and social needs. A score is a planning aid—not a guarantee for individual fish.
| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 83/100 |
| Ph | 0/100 |
| Temperament | 75/100 |
| Adult Size | 8/100 |
| Swim Zone | 68/100 |
| Social Needs | 92/100 |
Tank size scenarios
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 100 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 150 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 220 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |