Cherry Shrimp and Clown Loach Compatibility Overview
Cherry Shrimp and Clown Loach are generally not recommended to be housed together. Clown loaches will eat cherry shrimp. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Cherry Shrimp | Clown Loach | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65โ80ยฐF | 77โ86ยฐF | โ ๏ธ 77โ80ยฐF (narrow) |
| pH Range | 6.5โ8.0 | 6.0โ7.5 | โ 6.5โ7.5 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | โ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 0.8 in | 12 in | โ 15ร difference |
| Min. Group | 10+ | 5+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Cherry Shrimp โ Neocaridina davidi
Bright red freshwater shrimp that are excellent algae cleaners. Very small โ at risk from any fish large enough to eat them.
โ Full Cherry Shrimp care guide
Clown Loach โ Chromobotia macracanthus
Striking striped loach that grows very large. Peaceful with fish but will eat shrimp, snails and tiny fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Shrimp live with Clown Loach?
Generally not recommended. Cherry Shrimp and Clown Loach are generally not recommended to be housed together. Clown loaches will eat cherry shrimp. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Cherry Shrimp and Clown Loach together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Cherry Shrimp and Clown Loach together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cherry Shrimp and Clown Loach?
77โ80ยฐF (narrow) โ inside Cherry Shrimp's 65โ80ยฐF and Clown Loach's 77โ86ยฐF.
Is a Cherry Shrimp aggressive toward a Clown Loach?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cherry Shrimp and Clown Loach
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. |