Cherry Shrimp and Bristlenose Plecos, side by side
| Cherry shrimp | Bristlenose pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 1.2 in3 cm | 5.1 in13 cm |
| Smallest tank | 5 gal19 L | 30 gal114 L |
| Keep | 6 or more | One or more |
| Temperature | 64–82 °F18–28 °C | 72–81 °F22–27 °C |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 6–7.8 |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims | On the bottom | 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 | Cherry shrimp | Bristlenose pleco |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 20 gallon long | Too small for both | |
| 29 gallon | 30 | 1 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 30 | 2 |
| 55 gallon | 30 | 3 |
| 75 gallon | 30 | 4 |
| 125 gallon | 30 | 8 |
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 larger fish 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 cherry shrimp and bristlenose plecos live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Cherry shrimp and bristlenose plecos like the same water: 72–81 °F (22–27 °C) and a pH of 6.5–7.8. Both spend their time on the bottom, so give them enough length to share.
What size tank do cherry shrimp and bristlenose plecos need together?
At least a 29 gallon tank, which carries about 30 cherry shrimp and 1 bristlenose pleco comfortably.
What temperature suits cherry shrimp and bristlenose plecos?
72–81 °F (22–27 °C) suits both.
More pairs
- Cherry shrimp and bettas
- Cherry shrimp and guppies
- Cherry shrimp and neon tetras
- Cherry shrimp and fancy goldfish
- Cherry shrimp and angelfish
- Bristlenose plecos and bronze corydoras
- Bristlenose plecos and mollies
- Bristlenose plecos and platies
- Bristlenose plecos and tiger barbs
- 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.