What Fish Are Safe for Shrimp Tanks?

There is no need to overcomplicate this. Some fish just mind their own business and do not care about your shrimp. These ten fish, in my experience, are perfect tankmates for your little shrimp colony. Let us go fish shopping together—metaphorically, of course. We will figure out which fish will keep the peace.

How Do You Care for Neon Tetras?

Why They’re a Good Fit: Neon Tetras are those tiny, colorful gems you always see in aquariums. They are kind of like the quiet kid at school who just does their own thing, never causing any trouble. Their tiny mouths are no real threat to adult shrimp, but baby shrimp—watch out. They could get snacked on if there is no food around. Keep that in mind.

Care Tip: Neon Tetras like having friends around. A school of at least six will keep them happy. Also, do yourself (and them) a favor by adding a bunch of plants. They will feel secure, and your shrimp will thank you for the extra cover.

Why Are Otocinclus Catfish Safe for Shrimp Tanks?

Why They’re a Good Fit: Now, if there was ever a fish that absolutely does not care about shrimp, it is the Otocinclus Catfish. They are all about the algae. I mean, these guys are practically the janitors of your tank, and guess what? They are really good at it. If you need someone to clean up without bothering the shrimp, they are your go-to fish.

Care Tip: The thing with Otocinclus is they are sensitive to water conditions. Keep that water clean and steady, otherwise, they get cranky. Also, make sure they have plenty of algae to munch on—no algae, no happy Otos. Toss in some algae wafers if you have to.

How Do Harlequin Rasboras Behave in Shrimp Tanks?

Why They’re a Good Fit: Harlequin Rasboras are like that peaceful neighbor who stays in their own lane. They spend most of their time swimming around the upper and middle parts of the tank, leaving the shrimp alone at the bottom. It is a win-win situation for everyone.

Care Tip: These fish love to stick together, so keep them in a group of six or more. The more plants you have, the happier your Rasboras and shrimp will be. Hiding places? They are a must.

Can Endler’s Livebearers Live with Shrimp?

Why They’re a Good Fit: Endler’s Livebearers bring energy to the tank. They are tiny but lively, like the cousin who comes over for dinner and brightens up the room without wrecking the place. They are friendly, and their small size makes them shrimp-safe. Just be ready for some babies, because these little guys love to breed.

Care Tip: Plants are your best friend. If you end up with more Endlers than you bargained for, at least the shrimp fry can find some cover. It is all about balance. Learn more about shrimp care in my guide on caring for shrimp fry.

Are Pygmy Corydoras Good for Shrimp Tanks?

Why They’re a Good Fit: Think of Pygmy Corydoras as the calm, zen-like fish at the bottom of your tank. These tiny bottom dwellers will not give your shrimp any trouble. They just scoot around, cleaning up bits of food and minding their own business.

Care Tip: Pygmies like a soft floor to walk on. Give them a substrate that will not hurt their little whiskers. They are also social, so make sure they have a group to hang out with. No loners here! Consider adding Seachem Equilibrium to keep your water balanced for these little bottom dwellers.

Are Celestial Pearl Danios Compatible with Shrimp?

Why They’re a Good Fit: Ah, Celestial Pearl Danios. These little beauties are like jewels for your tank. They are small, peaceful, and get along great with shrimp. Honestly, they are there to look pretty and leave everyone else alone.

Care Tip: Keep them in groups and give them a nicely planted tank. They like hiding spots and plenty of greenery to feel safe. The more plants, the better.

Why Should You Choose Chili Rasboras for Shrimp Tanks?

Why They’re a Good Fit: These guys are even tinier than Neon Tetras, if you can believe that. Chili Rasboras are shrimp-friendly, because they are just too small to cause any real harm. Plus, they are so chill, they might as well be honorary shrimp.

Care Tip: A heavily planted tank is ideal. These fish need cover to feel safe, but they will never bother your shrimp. Keep them happy, and they will keep the peace.

Are Kuhli Loaches Shrimp-Safe?

Why They’re a Good Fit: Kuhli Loaches are the night owls of the fish world. They do their thing mostly at night, wiggling through the substrate, but they will not give shrimp any grief. They are too busy hunting for leftovers.

Care Tip: These loaches need hiding places like caves or thick plants. If you do not give them places to hide, they will feel stressed. Trust me, stressed loaches are no fun to watch.

How Can You Care for Dwarf Gouramis in a Shrimp Tank?

Why They’re a Good Fit: I have to admit, Dwarf Gouramis can be a bit hit or miss. When they are peaceful, they are great tankmates. They usually will not bother adult shrimp, but those little shrimp babies might be at risk. Keep an eye on them if you are breeding shrimp.

Care Tip: Dwarf Gouramis like their space. Keep the tank large enough to prevent any territorial squabbles. Monitor them for aggression, and you should be good. If aggression becomes an issue, consider using Seachem Prime to keep the water quality pristine, reducing stress levels in your fish.

Can Amano Shrimp Live with Other Shrimp Species?

Why They’re a Good Fit: Let me throw in a curveball here. Amano Shrimp may not be fish, but they sure are great tankmates for your other shrimp. Plus, they pull double duty by cleaning up algae like pros. Everyone loves Amano Shrimp.

Care Tip: Amanos need stable water conditions and a constant source of algae or algae wafers to thrive. They are low-maintenance but sensitive to temperature and pH changes. Keep things steady, and they will be your tank’s best workers.

How Can You Keep Your Shrimp and Fish Tank Peaceful?

There are a few tricks to keeping shrimp and fish happy together. A bigger tank always helps, because it gives everyone enough space to do their thing. Fill it with plants and hiding spots, so the shrimp can disappear if they need to. Keeping the water clean is key. I cannot stress enough how much fish and shrimp depend on good water quality. Overfeeding is another common mistake. Stick to a feeding schedule that prevents leftovers from rotting in the tank. That stuff will stress both your shrimp and fish out, and nobody wants that.

So, there you have it—ten fish species that will not turn your shrimp tank into a war zone. The goal here is to create a peaceful, balanced aquarium where shrimp and fish live in harmony. As long as you choose the right tankmates and give everyone the care they need, you will have a thriving community. Trust me, I have been at this for years, and nothing beats watching shrimp and fish go about their lives in a well-balanced tank. Got any questions? Drop them in the comments. Let us keep learning together.