Cherry Barb and Percula Clownfish Compatibility Overview
Cherry Barb and Percula Clownfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: Cherry Barb wants 6.0โ8.0 and Percula Clownfish wants 8.1โ8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Cherry Barb | Percula Clownfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73โ81ยฐF | 74โ82ยฐF | โ 74โ81ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.0โ8.0 | 8.1โ8.4 | โ No overlap |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 2 in | 3.0 in | โ Similar |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 2+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 20 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
Percula Clownfish โ Amphiprion percula
The Percula Clownfish, also known as the False Percula, is a popular beginner fish due to its hardiness and striking coloration. These fish are best kept in a saltwater tank with a minimum size of 30 gallons and compatible tankmates. They are peaceful, non-aggressive and do well in groups with other compatible species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Barb live with Percula Clownfish?
Generally not recommended. Cherry Barb and Percula Clownfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: Cherry Barb wants 6.0โ8.0 and Percula Clownfish wants 8.1โ8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Cherry Barb and Percula Clownfish together?
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for keeping Cherry Barb and Percula Clownfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cherry Barb and Percula Clownfish?
74โ81ยฐF โ inside Cherry Barb's 73โ81ยฐF and Percula Clownfish's 74โ82ยฐF.
Is a Cherry Barb aggressive toward a Percula Clownfish?
Cherry Barb is peaceful and Percula Clownfish is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cherry Barb and Percula Clownfish
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 20 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 29 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 55 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |