Thinking about some Cherry Shrimp

**jmueller** · 09-16-2010, 03:34 PM

LFS has Red Cherry Shrimp on sale, but I don't know if my tank would be overloaded if I added some, Or if one of my fish would be too aggressive on them.

My tank:

Planted (pretty lush, and growing fast, and already big), bubble bar, 10 Gal.
PH: 7.2
water temp: 78 degrees

Fish:
1 Rainbow Shark (about 3.5 inch long)
3 Black Mollys
5 Neon Tetra
2 Cherry Barbs

**chrisfraser05** · 09-16-2010, 04:24 PM

I think the shark and the barbs would have them eaten in minutes unfortunately :(

**FishyGuy** · 09-16-2010, 04:37 PM

The rainbow shark needs a bigger tank. He may grow to 6"+ so a 10 gallon is not the best place for him. He may also be to aggressive for the tetras, barbs, and shrimp as well. As long as the shark is in there you run the risk of him eating the smaller fish.

Your tank is already overstocked with the shark in there because of his potential size. Until the shark is moved to another tank I would not suggest getting any shrimp.

Edit: I will tell you that your tank sounds great for shrimp. They do their best in a well planted aquarium. :)

**SkipW** · 09-16-2010, 04:38 PM

They have a small impact to the bio-load but I'd have to agree with Chris, they will most likely end up being a tasty snack.

**Lady Hobbs** · 09-16-2010, 05:20 PM

Even my tetra's ate.

I agree the shark is not suitable for 10 gallons. Without him, you really have enough in your tank already.

**korith** · 09-16-2010, 05:24 PM

Wouldn't last too long in a tank with those fish. Very few fish will leave the shrimp alone. Even fish that may look small, may pick/tear away at the shrimp. About the only real fish that is 'safe' to keep with red cherry shrimp are otocinclus. Have had success with keeping them with microrasboras (under an inch in size) and even pygmy cories to some extent. The baby shrimp are very small like 2mm or less, that would be a quick and easy snack for any fish.

**jmueller** · 09-16-2010, 06:43 PM

Thanks for the info guys, I really appreciate it!

Well, I love the shark, and ever since i gave him a tunnel to hang out in, I barely ever see him. But all of you are right about his aggression, he does chase the black mollys around a little bit when they get near the tube.

Because I Believe that most of you have much more experience with tanks than I do... The cherry shrimp will have to remain on sale in the store.

I would gladly take suggestions for other shrimp like fish to help me eat some of the left-over food, and algae, similarly, i just want some more activity on the bottom of the tank, or on the plants.

PS.. just got some blue LEDs, ill be building my moon-light this weekend! Im stoked!

**korith** · 09-16-2010, 09:58 PM

If you want to give your fish a treat, how about ghost shrimp? Sometimes they are called feeder shrimp in stores. They are larger than red cherry shrimp. A fair bit cheaper maybe $1-2 for a dozen. Some could survive for a while in the tank, others will get taken fairly quickly. If you feel like experimenting and seeing how the fish react to them.