Platies and Cherry Shrimp, side by side
| Platy | Cherry shrimp | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 2.4 in6 cm | 1.2 in3 cm |
| Smallest tank | 15 gal57 L | 5 gal19 L |
| Keep | 3 or more | 6 or more |
| Temperature | 68–79 °F20–26 °C | 64–82 °F18–28 °C |
| pH | 7–8.2 | 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 | Platy | Cherry shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 20 gallon long | 6 | 21 |
| 29 gallon | 9 | 27 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 13 | 30 |
| 55 gallon | 18 | 30 |
| 75 gallon | 25 | 30 |
| 125 gallon | 30 | 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 platies and cherry shrimp live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Platies and cherry shrimp like the same water: 68–79 °F (20–26 °C) and a pH of 7–8. Platies 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 platies and cherry shrimp need together?
At least a 20 gallon long tank, which carries about 6 platies and 21 cherry shrimp comfortably.
What temperature suits platies and cherry shrimp?
68–79 °F (20–26 °C) suits both.
More pairs
- Platies and bettas
- Platies and guppies
- Platies and neon tetras
- Platies and fancy goldfish
- Platies and angelfish
- Cherry shrimp and bronze corydoras
- Cherry shrimp and mollies
- 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.