Compatibility Overview
Cherry Shrimp and Oscar 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 | Oscar | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65–80°F | 74–81°F | ✅ 74–80°F |
| pH Range | 6.5–8.0 | 6.0–8.0 | ✅ 6.5–8.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | aggressive | ❌ Risk |
| Adult Size | 0.8 in | 14 in | ❌ 18× 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
Oscar — Astronotus ocellatus
Intelligent but aggressive cichlids that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouth. Require large tanks (75+ gallons) and robust tank mates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Shrimp live with Oscar?
Generally not recommended. Cherry Shrimp and Oscar 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 Oscar together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Cherry Shrimp and Oscar together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cherry Shrimp and Oscar?
74–80°F
Is a Cherry Shrimp aggressive toward a Oscar?
Cherry Shrimp is peaceful and Oscar is aggressive. Oscars will eat cherry shrimp.