GoldfishVSCherry Shrimp

Can they live together? Complete Compatibility Analysis

Compatibility Score

🚫 Do Not Mix

Goldfish and Cherry Shrimp are fundamentally incompatible due to conflicting environmental needs and predator-prey dynamics. Goldfish are coldwater, large, messy omnivores that will actively hunt and consume shrimp. Cherry Shrimp require stable, warm, tropical temperatures and pristine water quality, which is impossible to maintain with goldfish.

Potential Issues

•Goldfish will eat adult Cherry Shrimp and decimate any shrimp population.
•Goldfish produce immense waste, fouling water and creating conditions lethal to sensitive shrimp.
•Temperature requirements are completely opposed (Goldfish: cool, Shrimp: warm).

Tank Requirements

Temperature

Cannot be reconciled. Goldfish: 65-72°F (18-22°C). Cherry Shrimp: 72-78°F (22-26°C).

pH Level

Broadly similar (7.0-8.0), but water quality is the primary issue.

Minimum Tank Size

Not applicable for mixing. For shrimp alone: 10+ gallons. For fancy goldfish alone: 30+ gallons.

About Goldfish and Cherry Shrimp

When considering adding Cherry Shrimp to a tank with Goldfish, it's crucial to understand their specific needs. Goldfish and Cherry Shrimp are fundamentally incompatible due to conflicting environmental needs and predator-prey dynamics. Goldfish are coldwater, large, messy omnivores that will actively hunt and consume shrimp. Cherry Shrimp require stable, warm, tropical temperatures and pristine water quality, which is impossible to maintain with goldfish.

Key Differences

Goldfish: Requires 20 gallons minimum. Usually prefers coldwater water conditions.
Cherry Shrimp: Requires 2 gallons minimum. Usually prefers tropical water conditions.

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