Mollies and Cherry Shrimp, side by side
| Molly | Cherry shrimp | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 3.9 in10 cm | 1.2 in3 cm |
| Smallest tank | 30 gal114 L | 5 gal19 L |
| Keep | 3 or more | 6 or more |
| Temperature | 73–82 °F23–28 °C | 64–82 °F18–28 °C |
| pH | 7.5–8.5 | 6.5–8 |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims | In the middle | 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 | Molly | Cherry shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 20 gallon long | Too small for both | |
| 29 gallon | 4 | 30 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 6 | 28 |
| 55 gallon | 9 | 17 |
| 75 gallon | 12 | 30 |
| 125 gallon | 20 | 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 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 mollies and cherry shrimp live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Mollies and cherry shrimp like the same water: 73–82 °F (23–28 °C) and a pH of 7.5–8. Mollies spend their time in the middle and cherry shrimp on the bottom, so they stay out of each other's way.
What size tank do mollies and cherry shrimp need together?
At least a 29 gallon tank, which carries about 4 mollies and 30 cherry shrimp comfortably.
What temperature suits mollies and cherry shrimp?
73–82 °F (23–28 °C) suits both.
More pairs
- Mollies and bettas
- Mollies and guppies
- Mollies and neon tetras
- Mollies and fancy goldfish
- Mollies and angelfish
- Cherry shrimp and bronze corydoras
- 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.