Can goldfish live with cherry barbs?
Verdict
No
No. Goldfish and cherry barbs should not share a tank. Goldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); cherry barbs need 73–81°F. They overlap only at 73–74°F, the edge of both ranges.
What to watch
- Deal breakerGoldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); cherry barbs need 73–81°F. They overlap only at 73–74°F, the edge of both ranges.
- Watch outAt 10 inches a goldfish can swallow a small cherry barb. Fast, alert fish usually stay out of reach.
What works
- pH 7–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Goldfish | Cherry barb | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–74 °F | 73–81 °F |
| pH | 7–8 | 6–7.5 |
| Adult size | 10.0 in | 2.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gal | 20 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims at | All levels | Middle |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for goldfish
Better tank mates for cherry barbs
Questions
Can goldfish live with cherry barbs?
No. Goldfish and cherry barbs should not share a tank. Goldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); cherry barbs need 73–81°F. They overlap only at 73–74°F, the edge of both ranges.
What temperature suits both goldfish and cherry barbs?
73–74 °F. Goldfish need 60–74 °F, cherry barbs need 73–81 °F.
What size tank do goldfish and cherry barbs need together?
At least 40 gal, set by the goldfish. Add space for each extra fish.