Dwarf Gouramis and Cherry Shrimp, side by side
| Dwarf gourami | Cherry shrimp | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 3 in7.5 cm | 1.2 in3 cm |
| Smallest tank | 15 gal57 L | 5 gal19 L |
| Keep | One | 6 or more |
| Temperature | 72–82 °F22–28 °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 | Dwarf gourami | Cherry shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 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 dwarf gourami 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 dwarf gouramis and cherry shrimp live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Dwarf gouramis and cherry shrimp like the same water: 72–82 °F (22–28 °C) and a pH of 6.5–7.8. Dwarf gouramis spend their time near the top and cherry shrimp on the bottom, so they stay out of each other's way. Dwarf gourami can be pushy, so watch for chasing in the first week.
What size tank do dwarf gouramis and cherry shrimp need together?
At least a 20 gallon long tank, which carries about 1 dwarf gourami and 30 cherry shrimp comfortably.
What temperature suits dwarf gouramis and cherry shrimp?
72–82 °F (22–28 °C) suits both.
More pairs
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- Dwarf gouramis and guppies
- Dwarf gouramis and neon tetras
- Dwarf gouramis and fancy goldfish
- Dwarf gouramis and angelfish
- Cherry shrimp and bronze corydoras
- Cherry shrimp and mollies
- Cherry shrimp and platies
- Cherry shrimp 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.