Can Cherry Shrimp Live With Clown Pleco?
Cherry Shrimp and Clown Pleco are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–80°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Cherry Shrimp | Clown Pleco | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65–80°F | 73–82°F | 73–80°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6.5–8 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 1.5" | 3.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 5 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore/Detritivore | Herbivore/Wood eater | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Cherry Shrimp + Clown Pleco
To keep Cherry Shrimp and Clown Pleco together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Cherry Shrimp should be kept in a school of 10+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
Cherry shrimp are the most popular freshwater aquarium shrimp, prized for their vibrant red color and algae-eating habits. They are extremely hardy, breed readily in captivity, and make excellent additions to planted tanks. Available in multiple color grades from pale pink (regular) to deep crimson (Painted Fire Red).
Full care guide →Clown Pleco
Panaqolus maccus
Clown plecos are beautiful, small plecos with striking orange and black striped patterns. At only 3.5 inches max size, they are perfect for 20-gallon and larger community tanks. Unlike many pleco species, they are primarily wood eaters rather than algae eaters — driftwood is an essential part of their setup. They are shy, nocturnal, and make excellent additions to planted tanks.
Full care guide →