Bettas and Cherry Shrimp, side by side
| Betta | Cherry shrimp | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 2.6 in6.5 cm | 1.2 in3 cm |
| Smallest tank | 5 gal19 L | 5 gal19 L |
| Keep | One | 6 or more |
| Temperature | 75–82 °F24–28 °C | 64–82 °F18–28 °C |
| pH | 6–7.8 | 6.5–8 |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Peaceful |
| Swims | Near the top | On the bottom |
What size tank do they need together?
Each row shows how many of each the tank carries comfortably when these are the only two kinds in it.
| Tank | Betta | Cherry shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | 1 | 13 |
| 10 gallon | 1 | 30 |
| 20 gallon long | 1 | 30 |
| 29 gallon | 1 | 30 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 1 | 30 |
| 55 gallon | 1 | 30 |
| 75 gallon | 1 | 30 |
| 125 gallon | 1 | 30 |
Open this pair in the stocking calculator to add more fish or try your own tank.
How to make it work
- Add the calmer, smaller fish first, and the betta last.
- Use plants, wood or rocks to break up the view across the tank. Fish that cannot see each other all day fight less.
- Watch closely for the first week. Torn fins, hiding or a fish that stops eating mean it is not working.
- Keep a spare tank or a divider ready, so you can separate them the same day.
Questions and answers
Can bettas and cherry shrimp live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Bettas and cherry shrimp like the same water: 75–82 °F (24–28 °C) and a pH of 6.5–7.8. Bettas spend their time near the top and cherry shrimp on the bottom, so they stay out of each other's way. Betta can be pushy, so watch for chasing in the first week.
What size tank do bettas and cherry shrimp need together?
At least a 5 gallon tank, which carries about 1 betta and 13 cherry shrimp comfortably.
What temperature suits bettas and cherry shrimp?
75–82 °F (24–28 °C) suits both.
More pairs
- Bettas and guppies
- Bettas and neon tetras
- Bettas and fancy goldfish
- Bettas and angelfish
- Bettas and bronze corydoras
- Cherry shrimp and mollies
- Cherry shrimp and platies
- Cherry shrimp and tiger barbs
- Cherry shrimp and dwarf gouramis
- All pairs
Based on each species' adult size, water range and temperament (Seriously Fish, FishBase) and the rules of our stocking calculator. Individual fish differ: this is a guide, not a guarantee.