Can cherry shrimp live with bichirs?
Verdict
No
No. Cherry shrimp and bichirs should not share a tank. Bichirs hunt shrimp. Adult cherry shrimp will be eaten.
What to watch
- Deal breakerBichirs hunt shrimp. Adult cherry shrimp will be eaten.
- Watch outBichirs grow to 12 inches and need 75 gallons, far more than a tank set up for cherry shrimp.
What works
- Both are fine at 72–80°F.
- pH 6.5–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Cherry shrimp | Bichir | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65–80 °F | 72–82 °F |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Adult size | 1.5 in | 12.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 5 gal | 75 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Bottom | Bottom |
| Group | Groups of 6+ | Alone or in pairs |
| Diet | Omnivore | Carnivore |
Better tank mates for cherry shrimp
Mystery snailYes
CorydorasYes
Kuhli loachYes
Amano shrimpYes
Celestial pearl danioYes
Endler's livebearerYes
Better tank mates for bichirs
Questions
Can cherry shrimp live with bichirs?
No. Cherry shrimp and bichirs should not share a tank. Bichirs hunt shrimp. Adult cherry shrimp will be eaten.
What temperature suits both cherry shrimp and bichirs?
72–80 °F. Cherry shrimp need 65–80 °F, bichirs need 72–82 °F.
What size tank do cherry shrimp and bichirs need together?
At least 75 gal, set by the bichir. Add space for each extra fish.