Cherry Barb and Discus Compatibility Overview
Cherry Barb and Discus are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. There is no shared temperature: Cherry Barb needs 73โ81ยฐF and Discus needs 82โ88ยฐF. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Cherry Barb | Discus | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73โ81ยฐF | 82โ88ยฐF | โ No overlap |
| pH Range | 6.0โ8.0 | 5.0โ7.0 | โ 6.0โ7.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 2 in | 8 in | โ 4ร difference |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 5+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Cherry Barb โ Puntius titteya
Unlike most barbs, cherry barbs are peaceful schooling fish safe with bettas and nano species. Males turn vivid red when in breeding condition.
โ Full Cherry Barb care guide
Discus โ Symphysodon spp.
The 'king of the aquarium' โ beautiful but demanding. Requires very warm, soft, acidic water that excludes most community fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Barb live with Discus?
Generally not recommended. Cherry Barb and Discus are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. There is no shared temperature: Cherry Barb needs 73โ81ยฐF and Discus needs 82โ88ยฐF. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Cherry Barb and Discus together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Cherry Barb and Discus together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cherry Barb and Discus?
There is no safe shared range: Cherry Barb needs 73โ81ยฐF and Discus needs 82โ88ยฐF.
Is a Cherry Barb aggressive toward a Discus?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cherry Barb and Discus
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. |