Combining shrimp and fish: what works and what doesn't?

Shrimp in a community aquarium: it's possible, but not with every fish. Many fish species see a shrimp - and certainly a freshly molted shrimp - as easy prey. This guide shows which combinations work and which don't.

Why this often goes wrong

A shrimp colony that thrives and reproduces perfectly in a separate aquarium can completely disappear within a few weeks in a community aquarium. Fish actively hunt small shrimp, especially right after molting when their shell is still soft and the shrimp cannot defend itself well.

Fish you should avoid

• Bettas - actively hunt small shrimp, especially brightly colored species that stand out
• Larger cichlids - consider shrimp a welcome source of protein
• Larger barbs and tetras - can eat young shrimp, even if they pose no threat to adult animals
• Pufferfish - notorious for hunting shrimp, even adult specimens

Fish that generally get along well with shrimp

• Corydoras species - bottom dwellers that mainly focus on their own food and leave shrimp alone
• Small, peaceful tetras (like neons) - generally leave adult shrimp alone, although they may eat young shrimp
• Otocinclus - algae eaters that do not bother shrimp

Please note: even 'safe' fish often eat the very smallest shrimp. If you want your colony to reproduce and grow undisturbed, a separate shrimp aquarium without fish is always the safest choice.

Combining shrimp as cleaning helpers

Some shrimp are specifically used to combat algae in a community aquarium. The Japonica Shrimp is a good choice for this: it is large enough to defend itself better than a small Neocaridina, and very effective against algae. Please note: Japonica's also do not reproduce in a normal freshwater aquarium, so you essentially maintain a fixed group that you will need to replenish periodically if animals disappear.

Tips to increase the chance of survival

• Provide plenty of hiding places: dense moss such as Java moss, and decorations with small crevices and holes
• Choose a densely planted aquarium - the more cover, the greater the chance of survival
• Add enough shrimp at once, so that even with losses, a group remains
• Feed the fish well, so they are less inclined to hunt shrimp out of hunger

Do you want to breed shrimp?

If your goal is to grow and breed a shrimp colony, a separate aquarium without fish is by far the most reliable option. Read our guide Cycling a shrimp tank to get started.

Are you unsure about your combination?

Feel free to visit our store in Heinkenszand for personal advice on which fish and shrimp do or do not go together, or ask your question via chat.