Can bettas live with cherry shrimp?
⚠️ Caution Sometimes, with care
- ⚠️ Caution Betta fish will eat baby cherry shrimp (and some individuals hunt adults), so a shrimp colony may not grow. Dense plants and moss help.
| Betta fish | Cherry shrimp | |
| Temperature | 72–86 °F (22–30 °C) | 64–82 °F (18–28 °C) |
| pH | 6–8 | 6.5–8 |
| Adult size | 2.8 in (7 cm) | 1.2 in (3 cm) |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Peaceful |
| Swims in | Top | Bottom |
| Minimum tank | 10 gal | 5 gal |
Shared temperature: 72–82 °F (22–28 °C) · Shared pH: 6.5–8
Tips if you keep them together
- Keep only one betta fish (or one male).
- Keep cherry shrimp in a group of at least 10.
- Use a tank of at least 10 US gallons with plenty of plants and hiding places.
- Set the heater around 77 °F (25 °C), the middle of the shared range.
See all betta fish tank mates and cherry shrimp tank mates, or add more species in the checker.
FAQ
Can bettas live with cherry shrimp?
Sometimes, with care. Betta fish will eat baby cherry shrimp (and some individuals hunt adults), so a shrimp colony may not grow. Dense plants and moss help.
What temperature for bettas and cherry shrimp?
Betta fish: 72–86 °F (22–30 °C). Cherry shrimp: 64–82 °F (18–28 °C). Shared range: 72–82 °F (22–28 °C).
What size tank for bettas and cherry shrimp?
At least 10 US gallons, more as you add fish.
Note: Compatibility depends on individual temperament, tank size, decor and how fish are introduced. Our verdicts use conservative rules applied to published care data (see methodology). They are guidance, not a guarantee. Quarantine new fish and watch for chasing, torn fins or hiding.