Can I have Cherry Shrimp

[amyezar]

Can I have Cherry Shrimp or any type of shrimp? I have platys, a betta, red eyed tetras, guppies, a molly, and a BN Pleco. Do you have to have a planted tank?

 

[wendamus]

The only concern I would have is the Betta, the rest are peaceful fish who shouldn't bother the shrimp at all.

It helps to have some plants for the shrimp to hide in, they're a lot happier that way. They'll often fade out or become stressed and stop thriving (won't breed, etc) if they don't have somewhere to hide out.

A small ball of java moss, or a little bunch of hornwort, or even anacharis will work, and don't require special care. As long as you have a light above your aquarium, those plants will generally thrive. If you've got 2 WPG or more, they'll grow like crazy.

 

[amyezar]

I have fake plants and a rock structure for my other fish to hide. The betta I have is pretty laid back for the most part. It doesn't mess with my guppies and keeps to itself. I'd like to add something unique to the tank!

 

[amyezar]

Here is my tank

 

[kjr928]

My betta doesn't bother my red cherries. I think it will be fine as long as they have some stuff to hide in.

If you only have fake plants then you will have to feed them. If there are no plants for cover then the fish will probably try to steal it. Don't want any shrimp to starve.

 

[wendamus]

I dunno, I'll let others comment, but I think they'll be happier with at least one real plant. Of course, they're not very expensive, so it's worth a try just to find out.

 

[H3D]

I always suggest that shrimp be kept by themselves.

 

[luckydud13]

Yep I agree with H3D on this, got a 10 for my cherries with a java moss carpet, some vals and a thriving java fern,

 

[amyezar]

I have a 10 gallon that I've been wondering what to do with. How many should I get to start?

 

[H3D]

How many should I get to start?

20 or so would be a good start.