Cherry Shrimp and Molly Compatibility Overview
Short answer: only with care. Their pH ranges overlap only partly. It can work in a large, well-planted tank if you watch both fish closely for the first weeks.
Cherry Shrimp and Molly can potentially coexist, but the combination requires careful attention. Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady. A larger tank (minimum 75 gallons), dense planting, and close monitoring are essential.
| Factor | Cherry Shrimp | Molly | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65โ80ยฐF | 72โ82ยฐF | โ 72โ80ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.5โ8.0 | 7.5โ8.5 | โ ๏ธ 7.5โ8.0 (narrow) |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | โ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 0.8 in | 4 in | โ 5ร difference |
| Min. Group | 10+ | 3+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 75 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Caution Points
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
Molly โ Poecilia sphenops
Hardy livebearers that prefer alkaline, hard water โ sometimes slightly brackish. Prolific breeders; peaceful community fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Shrimp live with Molly?
With significant caution and a larger tank. Cherry Shrimp and Molly can potentially coexist, but the combination requires careful attention. Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady. A larger tank (minimum 75 gallons), dense planting, and close monitoring are essential.
What tank size do I need for Cherry Shrimp and Molly together?
A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for keeping Cherry Shrimp and Molly together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cherry Shrimp and Molly?
72โ80ยฐF โ inside Cherry Shrimp's 65โ80ยฐF and Molly's 72โ82ยฐF.
Is a Cherry Shrimp aggressive toward a Molly?
Cherry Shrimp is peaceful and Molly is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Safer Tank Mates for Cherry Shrimp and Molly
The highest-scoring compatible partners for each species in our compatibility data.
For Cherry Shrimp
- Glowlight Danio โ 96/100
- Nerite Snail โ 96/100
- Pygmy Corydoras โ 93/100
- Mystery Snail โ 91/100
- Neon Tetra โ 91/100
For Molly
- Guppy โ 96/100
- Platy โ 92/100
- Swordtail โ 89/100
- Electric Yellow Cichlid โ 88/100
- Peacock Cichlid โ 87/100
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cherry Shrimp and Molly
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 75 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 125 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 150 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |