Compatibility Overview
Cherry Shrimp and Goldfish 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 | Cherry Shrimp | Goldfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65–80°F | 50–74°F | ✅ 65–74°F |
| pH Range | 6.5–8.0 | 6.5–8.0 | ✅ 6.5–8.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | ✅ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 0.8 in | 12 in | ❌ 15× difference |
| Min. Group | 10+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
❌ Incompatibility Reasons
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
Goldfish — Carassius auratus
Classic pond and aquarium fish that prefer cool water. Heavy waste producers that require robust filtration. Will eat small fish and shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Shrimp live with Goldfish?
Generally not recommended. Cherry Shrimp and Goldfish 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 Cherry Shrimp and Goldfish together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Cherry Shrimp and Goldfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cherry Shrimp and Goldfish?
65–74°F
Is a Cherry Shrimp aggressive toward a Goldfish?
Cherry Shrimp is peaceful and Goldfish is peaceful. Cherry Shrimp requires tropical water; Goldfish requires cold water. These environments are incompatible.