Compatibility Overview
Cherry Shrimp and Congo Tetra can potentially coexist, but the combination requires careful attention. Some combination of water parameter differences, size mismatch, or temperament issues make this pair challenging. A larger tank (minimum 55 gallons), dense planting, and close monitoring are essential.
| Factor | Cherry Shrimp | Congo Tetra | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65–80°F | 72–79°F | ✅ 72–79°F |
| pH Range | 6.5–8.0 | 6.0–7.0 | ⚠️ 6.5–7.0 (narrow) |
| Temperament | peaceful | aggressive | ❌ Risk |
| Adult Size | 0.8 in | 1.6 in | ⚠️ 2.0× difference |
| Min. Group | 10+ | 6+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 55 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
⚠️ Caution Points
Species Profiles
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.
→ Full Cherry Shrimp care guide
Congo Tetra — Aquarium species
The Congo Tetra is a vibrant and active fish that thrives in a well-maintained freshwater aquarium. With its striking coloration and peaceful nature, it's a great addition to any community tank. This species is best kept in groups and requires a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space. They are known for their playful nature and can be seen darting aroun
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Shrimp live with Congo Tetra?
With significant caution and a larger tank. Cherry Shrimp and Congo Tetra can potentially coexist, but the combination requires careful attention. Some combination of water parameter differences, size mismatch, or temperament issues make this pair challenging. A larger tank (minimum 55 gallons), dense planting, and close monitoring are essential.
What tank size do I need for Cherry Shrimp and Congo Tetra together?
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping Cherry Shrimp and Congo Tetra together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cherry Shrimp and Congo Tetra?
72–79°F
Is a Cherry Shrimp aggressive toward a Congo Tetra?
Cherry Shrimp is peaceful and Congo Tetra is aggressive. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
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 | 100/100 |
| Ph | 50/100 |
| Temperament | 30/100 |
| Adult Size | 72/100 |
| Swim Zone | 68/100 |
| Social Needs | 85/100 |
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 | 55 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 75 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 125 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |