Endler Guppy With Shrimp: How to Keep Them Together?

Bringing together the vibrant and colorful Endler Guppy fish with the shrimp, are you ready to witness the perfect blend of aquatic beauty in your tank? With a delicate and intricate balance required to thrive, this combination of species can result in a wonderful display of natural behavior and unique interactions.

by Fabian

Updated: March 14, 2023 / 22 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

Be sure to incorporate the right aquatic plants and decor to provide a suitable environment for both species. Here are some tips and suggestions to keep in mind when introducing an Endler Guppy with shrimp into your aquarium:

• Aquarists must understand the compatibility of each species they intend to keep in the same tank. The Endler Guppy is a lively and active fish that loves to move around and feed constantly, while the shrimp is relatively peaceful and enjoys a quieter environment.
• Before introducing the Endler Guppy to the aquarium, it’s always better to allow the shrimp to establish themselves and thrive in the tank first. The presence of plants and hiding places reduces aggression and stress between populations.
• Ensure the tank parameters suit both species. The Endler Guppy prefers a tropical environment with a temperature range of 72-78°F, while the shrimp can thrive at slightly lower temperatures at around 68-72°F. The pH range for both should be between 7.0-8.0.
• To keep a balanced diet for both species, consider providing flake or pellet food for the Endler Guppy and supplement it with vegetable-based flakes and pellets for the shrimp. Including live or frozen food, such as brine shrimp or bloodworms, can also be an excellent source of protein.
• When introducing new fish to the aquarium, quarantine them first for at least two weeks to prevent the spread of any disease or parasites to the existing population. The shrimp are known for their disease-carrying abilities, so it’s always essential to follow proper quarantine protocols.

With the right setup in place, the introduction of an Endler Guppy with shrimp can be a fantastic experience for hobbyists. Witness the symbiotic relationship and behaviors of each species as they complement each other in your beautiful aquatic world.

What Are Endler Guppies?

Endler guppies, or Poecilia wingei, are a small, colorful species of freshwater fish that are native to northern Venezuela. They were first discovered in 1937 by Dr. John Endler, an ethologist who was studying the behavior of guppies in the wild.

Over the years, endler guppies have become increasingly popular among aquarists due to their vivid colors and active personalities. Unlike regular guppies, endler guppies have a more streamlined body shape, with a shorter and rounder caudal fin.

Endler guppies are also known for their hardiness and ease of care, making them a great choice for novice aquarists. They thrive in a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding places and moderate water flow. They are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

Endler guppies are a peaceful species and can be kept with other peaceful fish, such as tetras and rasboras. However, they are known to be prolific breeders, so it’s important to keep their population in check and avoid overstocking the tank.

Overall, endler guppies are a great addition to any aquarium, with their vibrant colors and easy care requirements.

What Are Shrimp?

Shrimp are small, marine creatures belonging to the order Decapoda. They are more generally referred to as crustaceans. Most shrimp species are found in saltwater, but some shrimp can live in freshwater. Some of the well-known shrimp species include tiger shrimp, pink shrimp, white shrimp, black tiger shrimp, and gray shrimp.

• Shrimp are known for their long, streamlined, and slender body structures. They have ten legs, which they use to swim and crawl.
• Shrimp come in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, blue, green, and even transparent. The color of shrimp is usually affected by their environment and the pigments in their diet.
• Shrimp are mainly scavengers and feed on small organisms, algae, and detritus. They are also an essential part of the food chain, serving as prey for larger marine animals.
• Shrimp are highly sensitive to changes in environmental conditions, and water quality is essential to their survival. Poor water quality can result in disease or death.
• Shrimp are widely consumed as a delicacy across the world, with popular dishes including shrimp scampi, shrimp cocktail, and shrimp curry.

In an aquarium, shrimp serve as bottom feeders and help to keep the tank clean. They also provide a source of entertainment for viewers, as observing their scavenging and interaction can be calming and intriguing. Shrimp make great tank-mates for Endler Guppies, as they are non-aggressive and can coexist peacefully.

Benefits Of Keeping Endler Guppies And Shrimp Together

If you’re thinking about setting up a freshwater aquarium, you might want to consider keeping endler guppies and shrimp together. Here are some benefits of mixing these species in a tank:

• Natural Cleaners: Shrimp and endler guppies are both natural cleaners. The shrimp will scavenge for any uneaten food or debris that has fallen to the bottom of the tank, while the guppies will take care of the surface layers.
• Easy to Care For: Both shrimp and endler guppies are easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginner aquarium enthusiasts.
• Complementary Colors: Endler guppies are known for their stunning and vibrant colors, which can complement the subtle tones of shrimp, making for a striking and aesthetically pleasing aquarium.
• Active and Peaceful: Despite the guppies’ tendency to zip around the tank, they are generally a peaceful species and are unlikely to harm the shrimp. This makes them great tank mates, creating a lively but peaceful community.
• Natural Behaviour: Having a mix of different species in the aquarium can help provide a more natural environment for both the shrimp and the endler guppies.
• Affordable: With both shrimp and guppies being reasonably priced, creating a mixed-species aquarium is an affordable option for those on a budget.

Overall, keeping endler guppies and shrimp together is a beneficial mix that can create a visually stunning and lively aquatic environment.

Challenges Of Keeping Endler Guppies And Shrimp Together

If you are planning to keep endler guppies and shrimp together, there are some challenges you need to be aware of. Here are a few things you need to consider:

• Shrimp can be preyed upon by guppies. Endler guppies are known to have a rather voracious appetite, and they may see shrimp as a tasty snack. This is especially true if the shrimp are small and their movements attract the attention of the fish. In some cases, guppies may actively hunt down shrimp and make a meal out of them. If you want to keep both species together, you’ll need to ensure that the shrimp are large enough and have plenty of places to hide from the fish.
• Shrimp may bully smaller fish. While it’s true that guppies can eat shrimp, the opposite can also happen. In some cases, shrimp may become territorial and attack small or weak fish, including guppies. This is particularly true if the fish don’t have enough hiding places or if the shrimp feel threatened. Again, providing ample hiding spots is crucial if you want to keep both species together.
• Water conditions need to be just right. Endler guppies and shrimp may have different needs when it comes to water parameters. Shrimp, for example, prefer slightly acidic water with low levels of nitrates and ammonia. Guppies, on the other hand, can tolerate a wider range of water conditions but may thrive in slightly alkaline water. You’ll need to do some research and ensure that the water parameters are suitable for both species.
• Overcrowding can be an issue. Both endler guppies and shrimp can breed quite quickly, and a crowded tank can lead to stress and potential health issues. You’ll need to closely monitor the tank population and be prepared to cull some individuals if necessary. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that the tank is large enough to accommodate both species comfortably.

Overall, keeping endler guppies and shrimp together can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With some careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a thriving and harmonious community in your aquarium.

Setting Up The Tank

Before introducing endler guppies and shrimp in the same tank, it is crucial to set up the ideal habitat for both creatures to thrive comfortably. Below are some essential steps to follow:

• Select the right aquarium: An ideal fish tank for endler guppies and shrimp should have a minimum of 10 gallons, with a heater and a filter. You can choose between glass or acrylic tanks depending on your preference and budget.
• Add substrate: Choose an aquarium substrate that is safe for both shrimp and guppies, and make sure to have a depth of at least two inches to allow for burrowing.
• Decorate the tank: Provide the fish and shrimp with some hiding spots by adding rocks, caves, and plants. Live plants also offer a natural food source for shrimp and help to maintain water quality.
• Install lighting: Ensure the aquarium has proper lighting, preferably on a timer, to provide a consistent day/night cycle for the creatures.
• Cycle the tank: Ammonia and nitrite levels can be harmful to both shrimp and fish, so cycle the tank for a few weeks before adding any living creatures. This allows beneficial bacteria to grow and break down harmful toxins.
• Test the water: Use a quality water test kit to monitor the pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels frequently, and perform regular water changes to maintain the balance of the aquarium.

By following these steps, you can have a thriving endler guppy and shrimp ecosystem in your home aquarium.

Choosing The Right Tank Size

When it comes to housing your endler guppy and shrimp, choosing the right tank size is crucial to their overall health and happiness. Here are some tips to help you decide:

• Consider the number of fish and shrimp you plan to keep. A good rule of thumb is to have at least one gallon of water per inch of fish and one gallon of water per five shrimp.
• Think about the activity level of your fish and shrimp. Endler guppies are active swimmers, so a tank that is too small can cause stress and stunted growth.
• Take into account the plants, decorations, and filtration system you plan to use. These take up space in the tank, so you’ll need to factor that in when choosing the size.
• Keep in mind that a larger tank is easier to maintain than a smaller one. The water quality is more stable, and you’ll have more room for maintenance equipment.
• Consider the future. If you plan to add more fish and shrimp in the future, it’s always better to invest in a larger tank from the beginning rather than having to upgrade later.

By following these guidelines, you can create a safe and comfortable home for your endler guppy and shrimp. Remember, they rely on you to provide them with the best possible environment, so choose wisely!

Setup for Plants and Hiding Places

Creating a natural-looking habitat for your endler guppy and shrimp is essential for their overall well-being. Adding plants to the aquarium not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides hiding spots for the shrimp.

Here are some tips for setting up plants and hiding places in your aquarium:

• Choose live plants such as java moss, anubias, or Amazon sword, as they provide a more natural environment for your fish and shrimp.
• Avoid plastic or silk plants, as they may injure your shrimp or guppy.
• Use driftwood or rocks to create caves or crevices, giving the shrimp and fish plenty of hiding spots.
• Place the plants and hiding spots in areas where they won’t obstruct the water flow and provide ample space for movement.
• Make sure to use a substrate layer for the plants to anchor their roots and prevent them from floating away.
• Keep the aquarium well-lit and supplement with CO2 if necessary to encourage plant growth.

By incorporating plants and hiding spots into your endler guppy and shrimp tank, you are not only improving their quality of life but also creating a thriving aquatic ecosystem.

Lighting And Filtration

The proper lighting and filtration are crucial for the well-being of your endler guppy and shrimp. Here’s what you need to know:

• Lighting: Endler guppies and shrimp thrive in low to moderate lighting conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause excessive algae growth and temperature fluctuations. Opt for a soft white LED light that mimics natural daylight.
• Filtration: Good filtration is essential for maintaining clean and healthy water. A sponge filter or a hang-on-back filter with a gentle flow rate is ideal for endler guppies and shrimp, as they don’t like strong currents. Make sure the filter is cycled before adding your fish and shrimp to the tank.
• Maintenance: Regular water changes and filter cleaning are necessary to keep your tank clean and stable. Aim for a weekly water change of 10-20% and clean the filter once a month. Use a water conditioner to remove any harmful chemicals and maintain the pH and hardness levels.
• Testing: Test the water parameters regularly with a reliable test kit. Endler guppies and shrimp prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and a hardness level of 4-8 dKH. Keep an eye on the ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels, as they can indicate a problem with the filtration or overfeeding.

Proper lighting and filtration are essential for the health and well-being of your endler guppy and shrimp. Use a soft white LED light and a gentle filtration system, perform regular water changes and filter cleaning, and test the water parameters regularly to ensure a healthy and stable environment.

Mixing Endler Guppies and Shrimp

If you’re a fan of keeping tropical fish, you’ve probably heard of the stunning Endler guppy. These vibrant and active fish are popular with aquarists due to their vibrant colors and energetic behavior. But what about keeping Endler guppies with shrimp?

Well, the good news is that it’s entirely possible to keep Endler guppies and shrimp in the same tank. In fact, many hobbyists do just that, and the results can be quite striking.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re planning on mixing Endler guppies and shrimp:

• Compatibility: In general, shrimp and Endler guppies are compatible tankmates. However, it’s not unheard of for Endlers to nip at the antennae or legs of a particularly adventurous shrimp, so keep an eye on your fish.
• Size Difference: Endlers are small fish, while shrimp can range from tiny to quite large (relative to fish). Make sure you have a varied selection of hiding spots and plants in your tank to allow the shrimp to feel safe and secure.
• Feeding: Both Endler guppies and shrimp are relatively easy to feed. However, keep in mind that shrimp are opportunistic scavengers, and they may try to steal food meant for the Endlers. Make sure you’re providing plenty of food for both species, and be prepared to feed your shrimp directly if necessary.
• Water Quality: Endler guppies and shrimp both thrive in clean water with stable water parameters. That means regular water changes, monitoring levels of ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite, and ensuring proper filtration.

Overall, mixing Endler guppies and shrimp can be a beautiful and rewarding experience for aquarists. Just make sure you’re providing a comfortable and safe environment for both species, and watch them thrive.

Introducing Endler Guppies To Your Shrimp Tank

So, you’ve decided to spice things up in your aquarium and introduce some Endler guppies to your shrimp tank. Before you do, it’s essential to take some precautionary measures to ensure the well-being of your shrimp buddies. Here’s what you need to know:

• Quarantine the Endler guppies. Before introducing new fish to your tank, it’s crucial to quarantine them for at least two weeks to prevent the spread of diseases and parasites. This process will also give you time to observe if your Endler guppies display any aggressive behavior towards their tank mates.
• Check water parameters. Endler guppies thrive in a pH range of 7.0-8.0 and temperatures around 72-78°F. Check if these water parameters are compatible with your shrimp’s living conditions before introducing the guppies.
• Start feeding your Endler guppies before introducing them to the tank. This practice will help prevent them from preying on your shrimps due to hunger.
• Introduce the Endler guppies slowly. Start by acclimating them to the water temperature by floating their bag in the tank for about half an hour. Then, gradually add water from the tank to their bag to help them acclimate slowly.
• Monitor the Endler guppies’ behavior. Observe how they interact with your shrimps for the first few days after introduction. Using a breeder box or tank divider can help prevent aggressive behavior towards your shrimps.

In conclusion, introducing Endler guppies to your shrimp tank can create a dynamic and diverse underwater world. But, it’s essential to take necessary precautions before adding new fish to your tank to prevent any harm to your shrimps.

Ensuring Compatibility

When deciding to keep Endler guppies and shrimp together in the same aquarium, it is crucial to ensure compatibility. Here are some factors to consider:

• Tank size: Make sure the tank is appropriately sized for both species to thrive without overcrowding. A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended.
• Water parameters: Endler guppies prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH of 7.0-8.0, whereas shrimp prefer more acidic water with a pH of 6.5-7.5. Ensure the water parameters are within an acceptable range for both species.
• Temperature: The ideal temperature for Endler guppies and shrimp is between 72-78°F. Ensure the aquarium has a stable temperature.
• Habitat: Provide plenty of hiding places and decorations to mimic a natural habitat for both species. Shrimp love to hide in plants and rocks, while Endler guppies prefer open swimming spaces.
• Predation: Endler guppies have a natural instinct to chase and eat small creatures, including shrimp. To prevent this, ensure the shrimp have plenty of hiding places and consider keeping larger or more robust shrimp species.
• Diet: Endler guppies are omnivorous and will eat anything from flakes to live food. Ensure the shrimp have a proper diet, and their food does not attract the guppies and become a source of competition or aggression.

By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that Endler guppies and shrimp can coexist peacefully in the same aquarium, providing an aesthetically pleasing and biologically diverse display.

Feeding Your Endler Guppies And Shrimp

Proper feeding is crucial to keeping your endler guppies and shrimp healthy and happy. Follow these tips to ensure your aquatic friends are well-nourished:

• Feed your endler guppies small quantities several times a day rather than one large meal to prevent overeating and bloating.
• Consider a variety of food options such as flakes, pellets, and frozen or live food like brine shrimp and daphnia to provide a balanced diet.
• Avoid overfeeding your shrimp as they will eat until they burst. Feeding them little and often is the way to go.
• Provide frequent vegetable and protein-rich meals such as zucchini, spinach, and algae wafers for shrimp to ensure proper nutrition.
• Monitor your aquarium’s water quality as overfeeding can lead to excess waste, which can harm your tank’s inhabitants and encourage algae growth.
• Avoid feeding your endler guppies and shrimp excessive amounts of high-protein foods such as bloodworms, as this can lead to digestive problems and swim bladder disease.
• Remember to remove uneaten food and debris from your aquarium to maintain water quality and prevent overfeeding.
• Keep in mind that some fish and shrimp species have very specific dietary requirements, so research what your particular breeds need.
• Don’t forget to provide your endler guppies and shrimp with some entertainment, such as a toy or a finely chopped piece of vegetable. This will keep them stimulated.
• When introducing new food to your aquarium, start with a small quantity and observe your fish and shrimp’s reaction before increasing the amount.

In conclusion, feeding your endler guppies and shrimp is a significant responsibility. By following the above-mentioned tips, you can keep your fish and shrimp happy and healthy. Remember, a balanced diet with variety is key, and monitoring your aquarium’s water quality is essential to maintain the health of your aquatic pets.

Aquarium Maintenance

Caring for Endler guppy with shrimp may seem like a daunting task, but once you get the hang of it, it’s an easy process. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy and happy aquarium environment:

• Weekly partial water changes are essential. Changing thirty percent of the water each week will help eliminate excess waste and replenish beneficial nutrients.
• Monitor ammonia, nitrate, and pH levels regularly to ensure optimal conditions for your aquatic pets.
• Feed your fish and shrimp with high-quality foods and ensure they don’t overeat to prevent water pollution.
• Aerate the tank and add a filter to improve water quality and promote healthy bacteria growth.
• Clean the heater, filter, and other equipment regularly to prevent debris build-up and ensure they’re functioning properly.
• Be mindful of any signs of illness, such as unusual behavior, discolored skin, or lethargy, and consult an expert in such instances.

Maintaining a clean and healthy habitat for your Endler guppy with shrimp is not only important for their health and well-being but also for the health of the community as a whole. Happy maintenance!

Cleaning and Water Changes

Keeping a healthy environment for your endler guppies and shrimp is crucial to their well-being. It is important to maintain a regular cleaning schedule, as well as monitor the water quality in your tank. Here are some tips for cleaning and water changes:

• Perform partial water changes of 10-20% weekly to maintain good water quality.
• Vacuum the gravel regularly to remove excess waste and debris.
• Avoid overfeeding your fish or shrimp, as uneaten food can contribute to poor water quality.
• Use a water test kit to monitor pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
• If levels become elevated or unstable, adjust accordingly with water changes or treatments.
• Clean the filter media regularly to prevent clogs and ensure proper filtration.
• Use freshwater only when cleaning your tank, and avoid using soap or harsh chemicals.
• Be sure to rinse all equipment thoroughly after cleaning.
• Keep an eye out for any signs of illness or injury in your fish or shrimp, and address any issues promptly.
• A clean and healthy environment will not only benefit your aquatic pets, but also enhance the beauty of your tank.

By following these guidelines, you can create a safe and thriving habitat for your endler guppies and shrimp. Remember to always prioritize their well-being and enjoy the beauty of your aquarium.

Monitoring Water Parameters

Keeping an eye on the water parameters in your endler guppy with shrimp tank is vital for the health and well-being of your pets. Here are some things to check for:

• pH: Aim for a pH level of 7-8.5
• Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature around 70-80°F
• Ammonia and nitrite levels: These should be at zero
• Nitrate levels: Aim for a level below 20 ppm
• General hardness (GH): Aim for a level between 6-12 dGH
• Carbonate hardness (KH): Aim for a level between 3-8 dKH

Regular water changes every week to biweekly is a simple way to keep your aquarium’s water in good condition. Test the water at least once a week, and especially after water changes, to detect any changes and adjust accordingly.

Remember to be cautious when adding any chemicals or medications to the water, as they could harm your fish and shrimp, and alter water parameters. Natural methods, such as using live plants or adding beneficial bacteria, are a better option.

By monitoring water parameters, you can ensure a healthy and thriving ecosystem for your endler guppy with shrimp tank.

Dealing With Common Issues

Adopting endler guppies along with shrimp to cohabit in a tank can be a beautiful sight. However, some problems may arise and lead to stress and illness among aquatic pets. Here are some common issues one can expect and ways to combat them:

• Predation: Endler guppies have carnivorous tendencies and may often target smaller shrimp, resulting in a loss. One can avoid this by creating hiding spots, increasing foliage, or bringing larger shrimp to the tank.
• Water Quality: Frequent water changes may alter water parameters and affect the wellbeing of your aquatic pals. One should monitor and maintain optimal water quality by checking pH, temperature, ammonia and nitrate levels, etc.
• Overfeeding: Overfeeding may result in obesity, bloating, and other health issues amongst fish and shrimp. It is recommended to feed small portions once or twice a day to avoid wastage.
• Disease: Fish and shrimp may get infected by diseases like ick, bacterial infections, etc. One should quarantine affected pets and take necessary measures to medicate and prevent the disease from spreading.
• Algae: Algae growth is common in fish tanks and can cause oxygen depletion and discoloration of water. One can combat it by controlling light exposure, cleaning the tank regularly, and adding algae-eating snails and fish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Endler Guppy with shrimp is an ideal combination for aquatic enthusiasts. This match has become increasingly popular and is highly recognized for its aesthetic appeal, behavioral compatibility, and symbiotic relationship. The Endler Guppy is a hardy fish with vibrant colors and playful behavior, while the shrimp species serve as a natural cleaner, controlling the algae and detritus in the tank.

Furthermore, maintaining the right tank conditions such as temperature, water chemistry, and tank size will ensure the survival of this species in a long-term perspective. This combination is easy to care for and highly rewarding, making it a perfect match for both novice and experienced aquatic hobbyists alike.

In addition to its beauty, this combination has also made a significant impact on scientific research, serving as a model organism for various biological and ecological studies. The Endler Guppy and shrimp in their natural habitat have contributed substantially to the understanding of animal behavior, genetics, and evolution.

In conclusion, the Endler Guppy with shrimp is a match made in aquatic heaven, offering both visual appeal and practicality. Whether you are starting a new aquatic journey or expanding your collection, this combination is a must-try, providing a unique and fulfilling experience that will surpass your expectations.