25 Cherry Barb Tank Mates
Finding the perfect tank mates for your Cherry Barbs is crucial for a harmonious environment. Cherry Barbs are peaceful fish that can easily coexist with a variety of species. Let’s explore 25 tank mates that would make great additions to your Cherry Barb community.
Neon Tetra
Neon Tetras are a popular choice for cherry barb tank mates because they make a vibrant addition to any aquarium. These small, active fishes have an iridescent blue line that runs horizontally across their body, complementing the cherry barb’s bright colors.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-78 °F (22-26 °C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, readily accepts flakes, frozen, and live foods
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm)
Unlike many other fishes, they prefer to stay in a school, so plan on adding at least six to your tank. Neon Tetras are non-aggressive and are known to get along with cherry barbs.
Since both species prefer the middle and upper parts of the tank, creating a comfortable environment for them is key. Make sure to provide plenty of hiding spaces with live plants, rocks, or driftwood to create a stress-free environment for both species.
Black Neon Tetra
Black Neon Tetra is a stunning little fish that adds flair to any aquarium. With its brilliantly contrasting black and neon blue colors, these schooling fish are an excellent choice for a peaceful community tank. They are relatively hardy and can adapt well to a wide range of water parameters, making them suitable for beginners as well.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: at least 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and social
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; will thrive on high-quality flake food, as well as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
- Adult Size: around 1.5 inches (4 cm)
Remember to always keep these fish in a group with at least 6 individuals to create a comfortable and harmonious environment. When properly cared for, Black Neon Tetras will surely brighten up any tank with their captivating beauty.
Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal Tetras are an excellent choice for a Cherry Barb tank mate, as they are both peaceful and add a vibrant splash of color. These beautiful little fish feature a neon blue stripe running along the side of their body, contrasted with a striking red color on their lower half.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; will accept quality flake food, frozen or live foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm)
When introducing Cardinal Tetras to your aquarium, be sure to add a handful of them together, as they are schooling fish and feel secure in groups. This will ensure a harmonious and stress-free environment for your Cherry Barbs and their new tank mates.
Rummy Nose Tetra
The Rummy Nose Tetra is a small, colorful addition to any aquarium that adds beautiful contrasting patterns to a community tank. With their bright red noses and distinct black and white tail stripes, they certainly stand out among other fish species.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 75-84 F (24-29 C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooler
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous with a preference for high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Rummy Nose Tetras, consequently, thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. As a schooling fish, they feel more secure and display a more vibrant color when surrounded by at least 5-6 of their own kind. Additionally, they’re well-suited to life alongside Cherry Barbs and other peaceful community tank mates.
Zebra Danio
Zebra Danio is a small, active, and vibrant fish that adds color and movement to your aquarium. They are known for their distinctive horizontal stripes and are considered low-maintenance tank mates, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Zebra Danios appreciate a well-planted environment with plenty of hiding spots.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 65 – 77°F (18 – 25°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, active, and social
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, will accept most types of flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Zebra Danios are schooling fish, so it’s best to keep at least five together. They’ll appreciate the company of Cherry Barbs and other peaceful tank mates, creating a harmonious underwater community.
Pearl Danio
Pearl Danios are a beautiful and active species that can make a lovely addition to your Cherry Barb community tank. These fish are known for their striking appearance, with shimmering bodies that resemble pearls glistening in the water.
They’re hardy, community-oriented, and share similar water parameter needs with Cherry Barbs, making them an excellent choice as tank mates.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoys flake or pellet food, and occasional live or frozen treats
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Just be mindful of providing enough space for swimming, hiding spots, and suitable tank conditions to keep all your tank inhabitants happy and stress-free.
Harlequin Rasbora
The Harlequin Rasbora is a vibrant, small fish species well-suited for community aquarium setups. With its easily recognizable coloration and peaceful demeanor, this fish can be a beautiful addition to your cherry barb tank mates list.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-81°F (22-27°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; readily accepts high-quality flakes, small pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
In a tank with cherry barbs, the Harlequin Rasbora will coexist peacefully while providing a colorful and dynamic element to your aquarium. Due to its small size and non-aggressive nature, it can safely interact with other fish species, making it an ideal companion for your cherry barbs.
The Harlequin Rasbora will also appreciate a well-planted tank and a gentle water flow, ensuring a comfortable and happy environment for all of your tank’s inhabitants.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gouramis are small, colorful, and peaceful fish that would make perfect tank mates for Cherry Barbs. These fish are known for their unique appearance, as they possess attractive patterns and eye-catching hues. When it comes to compatibility, both species share similar preferences in terms of tank size, water temperature, and diet, so they can coexist harmoniously.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: omnivore (flakes, pellets, frozen or live food)
- Adult Size: up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Keep in mind, Dwarf Gouramis may require a slightly higher water temperature than Cherry Barbs. However, finding a balance between their preferred temperature ranges can ensure a healthy environment for both species.
Honey Gourami
The Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna) is a small, peaceful fish species that is popular among aquarists due to their beautiful coloration and ease of care. They can be excellent tank mates for Cherry Barbs, as they share similar water requirements and have a gentle disposition.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)
- Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Care Level: Beginner
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, suitable with flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2 in (5 cm)
They prefer densely planted tanks with slow-moving water, providing them ample hiding spots and mimicking their natural habitat. While they can eat most fish foods, it is best to give them a varied diet with flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods for optimal health.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish are an excellent choice as tank mates for your cherry barbs. These interesting little fish are easy to care for, peaceful and love having company. They make sure to keep the bottom of your tank clean by scavenging for leftover food. With their attractive appearance, these catfish can be an exciting addition to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, but primarily bottom feeders; sinking pellets, frozen or live foods
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.6cm)
Because of their shy nature, make sure to provide plenty of hiding spots for Corydoras. With cherry barbs as their companion, they’ll surely flourish in a peaceful community tank.
Kuhli Loach
The Kuhli Loach, scientifically known as Pangio kuhlii, is an eel-like freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia. They are unique and fascinating creatures, making them an excellent tank mate choice for Cherry Barbs.
Kuhli Loaches are primarily a nocturnal species and love to dig and hide in the substrate. To ensure a comfortable environment for your Kuhli Loach, it’s essential to provide them with hiding spots like caves, plants, and décor.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (76 L)
- Temperature Range: 74-86°F (24-30°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, sinking pellets, bloodworms, and brine shrimp
- Adult Size: 3-5 inches (8-13 cm)
Remember to choose tank mates that also appreciate a peaceful environment, as Kuhli Loaches can become stressed if forced to share space with overly aggressive fish.
Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus Catfish are small, peaceful fish that make great tank mates for Cherry Barbs. Also known as “Oto Cats” or “Dwarf Suckerfish,” these tiny bottom-dwellers are efficient at keeping algae under control in your aquarium. They often hide in plants or decorations during the day, making them an interesting addition to your tank.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72°-79°F (22°-26°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Herbivore (primarily algae and biofilm)
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)
Remember that Otocinclus Catfish prefer being in groups, so it’s a good idea to have at least 3-6 of them in your aquarium. In addition, make sure to provide enough hiding spots and live plants for them to feel comfortable and secure. Overall, they’re a fantastic choice for your Cherry Barb tank mates due to their gentle and non-aggressive nature.
Ghost Catfish
Ghost Catfish, also known as Glass Catfish, are a fascinating addition to any Cherry Barb aquarium. These transparent fish get their name from their unique see-through appearance, which allows them to blend into their surroundings with ease.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 70-79°F (21-26°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous diet, include sinking pellets, frozen, and live foods.
- Adult Size: 2.4 inches (6 cm)
Ghost Catfish are peaceful fish that enjoy swimming in groups, so consider adding multiples to your tank. Since they are sensitive to water quality, it is important to constantly maintain a clean environment.
Their diet should consist of sinking pellets, frozen, and live foods to ensure proper nutrition. Ghost Catfish make for an interesting and eye-catching tank mate for your Cherry Barb.
Platy Fish
Platy fish are a popular choice among cherry barb tank mates, as they are easy to care for, hardy, and come in a variety of colors. These fish are great additions to a community tank, as they can coexist peacefully with cherry barbs and other similar species.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, feed them high-quality flakes, pellets, and occasional live foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-2.5 inches (4-6 cm)
Platies are a livebearer species that can quickly multiply, so be prepared to handle the potential population growth. Overall, these active, friendly fish make excellent companions for the cherry barb and many other species, adding color and vibrancy to your tank.
Swordtail
Swordtail fish are a popular choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists due to their vibrant colors and graceful, elongated tails. These fish are suitable tank mates for Cherry Barbs, as they share similar water temperature preferences and can coexist happily in community tanks.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (113 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed flake, frozen, and live foods
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Swordtails are generally peaceful but may exhibit some territorial behavior, especially males. To reduce potential conflict, consider keeping a larger ratio of females to males in the tank. These fish enjoy swimming in open areas, so ensure there’s plenty of swimming space in the tank. Plant cover is appreciated but not essential.
Mollies
Mollies are a popular and versatile fish species that can be a great addition to your Cherry Barb tank. They come in various colors and shapes, making them a stunning choice for a diverse and lively aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, requires a mixture of plant-based and protein-rich foods
- Adult Size: 3-5 inches (7.5-12.5 cm)
Mollies have a peaceful temperament, making them ideal tank mates for Cherry Barbs. They require an aquarium that has ample space to swim around with plenty of hiding spots. It’s crucial to maintain clean water conditions and a slightly alkaline pH to keep them healthy and thriving.
A varied diet of high-quality pellet or flake food, along with occasional live or frozen treats, ensures proper nutrition for your Mollies. Their engaging personalities will surely be a delightful added touch to your Cherry Barb community.
Guppies
Guppies are one of the most popular and easy-to-care-for aquarium fish, making them an excellent choice as Cherry Barb tank mates. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns, adding beauty to any community tank. Guppies get along well with Cherry Barbs, but it’s important to provide enough space and hiding spots for them.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – requires a mix of high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
When choosing to house guppies with Cherry Barbs, remember to monitor their population carefully, as they breed rapidly. It’s essential to balance the number of guppies to avoid overcrowding in the tank.
Ember Tetra
Ember Tetra is a small and peaceful fish species, making them perfect tank mates for Cherry Barbs. They are known for their vibrant orange color, which adds beauty to any aquarium. They are active swimmers and enjoy living in schools of six or more. Here are some key aspects of keeping Ember Tetras in a community tank:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Temperature Range: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; they primarily eat small insects and crustaceans, but will also accept high-quality flakes and pellets
- Adult Size: 0.9 inches (2.2 cm)
To ensure a healthy environment for your Cherry Barbs and Ember Tetras, make sure to maintain proper water conditions and offer a diverse diet to keep them happy and healthy.
Bolivian Ram
The Bolivian Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus) is a peaceful, colorful, and easy-to-care-for cichlid from South America. They can make a fantastic addition to a Cherry Barb community tank, as they thrive in similar environments and water conditions.
In addition to their stunning appearance, Bolivian Rams are known for their curious and playful behavior, which will bring life to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, will readily accept flake, pellet food, and occasional live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 3-3.5 inches (7.6-8.9 cm)
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos are one of the most popular species of algae-eating catfish and make an excellent tank mate for Cherry Barbs. These bottom-dwelling cleaners are great at keeping your aquarium free from algae overgrowth. They often attach themselves to surfaces and blend well with their environment.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-86°F (22-30°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (algae wafers, vegetables, and occasional meaty foods)
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Bristlenose Plecos are a valuable addition to your Cherry Barb tank because they handle the essential cleaning tasks and coexist peacefully with their tank mates. Keep in mind that they prefer slightly larger tanks, so ensure that you pick a tank that meets both your Cherry Barbs and Bristlenose Plecos’ needs.
Golden Barb
Golden Barbs are an active and attractive tank mate option for Cherry Barbs. They originate from Southeast Asia and are known for their vibrant, golden-yellow coloration. These fish are quite popular due to their easygoing nature and small size. Here are some key points to consider when adding Golden Barbs to your tank:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (76 liters)
- Temperature Range: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, accepts both pellets and flake food, enjoys frozen or live food as a treat
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Golden Barbs are a great choice for anyone looking to add more variety and color to their Cherry Barb tank. They are relatively low-maintenance, and their peaceful behavior makes them compatible with most other tank mates.
Bumblebee Goby
The Bumblebee Goby (Brachygobius xanthozonus) is a small, colorful fish that makes a great tank mate for Cherry Barbs. They have a striking appearance with a black body and yellow stripes. They are perfect for adding color and interest to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (37 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, but may be territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefers live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia
- Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches
Bumblebee Gobies are generally peaceful, making them suitable tank mates for Cherry Barbs. However, they can be territorial, so it’s essential to provide ample hiding spots in the form of rocks, caves, and plants.
They prefer a sand substrate, as they like to burrow and sift through it. Ensure you maintain good water quality, as they can be a bit sensitive to changes in parameters.
Hillstream Loach
The Hillstream Loach is an interesting and unique fish that originates from fast-flowing rivers in Asia. They are characterized by their flat body shape and peculiar suction-like mouth, which allows them to cling to rocks in their natural habitat.
Here are some key points to consider if you’d like to include Hillstream Loaches in your Cherry Barb tank:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 68-75°F (20-24°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, bottom-dwelling and community-oriented
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; should be provided with a mix of prepared foods and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Creating a comfortable environment for Hillstream Loaches and Cherry Barbs together requires a well-maintained tank with gentle water flow and plenty of hiding spots. Make sure your tank size is adequate and meets the requirements for both species before adding them to your community!
Keyhole Cichlid
Keyhole Cichlid, also known as Cleithracara maronii, is a peaceful yet unique tank mate for Cherry Barbs. Native to South America, this fish is known for its fascinating color patterns and the distinctive keyhole-shaped marking on its flanks. When adding Keyhole Cichlid to your tank, consider the following factors:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-77°F (22-25°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful and shy
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed high-quality flakes or pellets, frozen, and live foods
- Adult Size: 3.5 inches (9 cm)
Be sure to provide a soft substrate, hiding spots, and live plants for your Keyhole Cichlid to feel secure. Their gentle nature and compatibility with Cherry Barbs make them an ideal addition to your community aquarium.
Angelfish
Angelfish are a popular freshwater fish species that are known for their unique shape and beautifully long fins. They can add an elegant touch to many community aquariums but not all. While they may work well with cherry barbs, it is crucial to consider their compatibility with other tank mates.
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (113 L)
- Temperature Range: 74-84°F (23-29°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, should be fed a variety of foods including flakes, pellets, live and frozen shrimps, and worms
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Keep in mind that angelfish can be territorial, so providing plenty of hiding spots and plants can help reduce aggression towards tank mates. Also, remember to avoid adding small fish that may resemble prey, as angelfish will not hesitate to eat them.
Conclusion
So, there you have it — 25 great tank mates for your Cherry Barbs. Remember to consider the compatibility, size, and care requirements of each potential tank mate. We hope this list helps create a peaceful and thriving aquarium community, and don’t forget to leave a comment sharing your experience or thoughts!
