25 Ghost Shrimp Tank Mates

Choosing the perfect tank mates for your ghost shrimp is easier than you might think. Start by considering the shrimp’s size, diet, and behavior. This list will help you to find other peaceful, non-aggressive species that thrive in similar conditions.

ghost shrimp tank mates

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Ember Tetra

Ember Tetras are small, beautiful, and peaceful fish that easily stand out despite their tiny size. Primarily flame orange in color, they bring a bright pop to your tank.

ember tetra

  • Compatibility: 5/5. Perfect for a community tank with Ghost Shrimps.
  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gal (37.85 liters). Room to swim will make them happy.
  • Temperature Range: 73-84°F (23-29°C). They prefer warm waters.
  • Care Level: Easy. Perfect for beginners.
  • Temperament: Peaceful. Great for cohabiting with other tranquil species.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They enjoy brine shrimp, daphnia, and high-quality flaked food.
  • Adult Size: 0.8 inches (2 cm). A petite size that fits well with Ghost Shrimp.

Their small size, peaceful nature, and easy care makes Ember Tetra an excellent choice as a tank mate for Ghost Shrimp.

 

Cherry Shrimp

Famous for its fiery red color, the Cherry Shrimp is another excellent tank mate for ghost shrimp.

Cherry Barb

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gal (38 liter)
  • Temperature Range: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, requires Both animal and vegetable-based foods
  • Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

As both species are small, non-aggressive, and share similar environmental needs, they coexist peacefully. Remember to feed Cherry Shrimp a variety of nutritional food such as vegetable flakes, algae wafers, or blanched vegetables to keep them healthy. Providing plenty of hiding spots with plants and rocks also helps in making them feel secure and reducing stress.

 

Amano Shrimp

The Amano Shrimp is an excellent tank mate option for your ghost shrimp given they share a friendly nature.

Amano Shrimp

  • Compatibility: 4/5. Though they are larger, Amano Shrimp do fine with Ghost Shrimp. They aren’t overly competitive.
  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
  • Care Level: Easy. They’re hardy and adaptable making them beginner-friendly.
  • Temperament: Peaceful. They coexist calmly with others.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They feed on algae, plant debris and leftover fish food.
  • Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Remember, these shrimps are escape artists due to their climbing tendency. Ensure the tank is well covered. Their gentle demeanor and easy maintenance make them a joy to have in a communal tank.

 

Ghost Catfish

Ghost Catfish, also known as Glass Catfish, can share a tank with your Ghost Shrimp as they are peaceful and quite sociable. However, they need to live in a group of at least 5 individuals.

Glass Catfish (Ghost Fish)

  • Compatibility: 4 out of 5
  • Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
  • Care Level: Moderate
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; feed them flake food, and occasionally, brine shrimp or bloodworms
  • Adult Size: 3 inches (7.6 cm)

Remember, Ghost Catfish are mid to top level swimmers, so provide ample swimming space at the higher levels of the tank.

 

Otocinclus Catfish

Alongside your ghost shrimps, introducing an Otocinclus Catfish can bring a semblance of balance. They are peaceful, hardy, and enjoy working round the clock to clean your tank. Being bottom dwellers, they won’t compete for space with your ghost shrimp.

Otocinclus Catfish

  • Compatibility: 5 out of 5
  • Tank Size: min 20 gallons (75 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
  • Care Level: Moderate
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Herbivore – algae and plant matter
  • Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Remember to provide them with adequate plant coverage and avoid pairing with aggressive or large fish species, which can intimidate or prey on them.

 

Neon Tetra

Neon Tetras are vibrant additions to your Ghost Shrimp tank. They are peaceful creatures and hence excellent tank mates for shrimps.

Neon Tetra

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
  • Care Level: Easy, making them suitable for beginners.
  • Temperament: Peaceful; they prefer school of 6 or more to be most comfortable.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; both high-quality flake foods or pellets and brine shrimp or blood worm.
  • Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

This small size and non-aggressive demeanor make Neon Tetras a fantastic choice. Just remember to keep them in a group and maintain water parameters, and they will thrive together with your Ghost Shrimps.

 

Fancy Guppy

Fancy Guppies are not only lively and colorful but also great roommates for your Ghost Shrimp. They share a peaceful yet playful demeanor which is an added plus aside from the aesthetic appeal.

fancy guppy

  • Compatibility: 4/5
  • Tank Size: 10 gal (37.85 liters) minimum
  • Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
  • Care Level: Easy. Guppies are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for beginners.
  • Temperament: Peaceful. Fancy Guppies are sociable creatures who prefer living in small groups of at least 3.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They relish a varied diet from flakes, frozen food to plant matter.
  • Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6 cm) long. Even with their small size, their vibrant colors make them stand out.

It’s worth mentioning that, while they’re compatible, keep an eye on their behavior to ensure a harmonious tank.

 

Threadfin Rainbowfish

The Threadfin Rainbowfish, named for its distinctive long threads, is an elegant companion for your ghost shrimp. Its beauty is in its colorful body and intricately patterned fins.

threadfin rainbowfish

  • Compatibility: 5/5 – They are peaceful and pose no threat to ghost shrimp.
  • Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) – Their swimming style needs ample space.
  • Temperature Range: 75-80°F (24-27°C) – A tropical water temperature is ideal.
  • Care Level: Easy – They are hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions.
  • Temperament: Peaceful – They are social and interact well with other species.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – They eat both plant-based food and small aquatic animals.
  • Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm) – They stay small, making them ideal tank companions for ghost shrimp.

A tank full of Threadfin Rainbowfish adds vibrancy and movement, while maintaining a peaceful co-existence with ghost shrimp.

 

Chili Rasbora

Chili Rasbora is a spunky, micro fish species that can add a splash of vibrant red to your aquarium. Despite their small stature, these creatures are excellent survivors. Here’s a quick rundown on what you need to consider if you’re thinking of making them tank mates for your ghost shrimp.

chili rasbora

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: 10 gal (37.85 liter)
  • Temperature Range: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceable
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivores, prefer live and frozen foods but will take flakes and pellets.
  • Adult Size: Up to 0.8 inches (2 cm)

Chili Rasbora are tiny, allowing a large number of them to comfortably coexist in the same tank, even one as small as 10 gallons. They’re hearty eaters that add a burst of color and life to your underwater world.

 

Black Neon Tetra

The Black Neon Tetra is a peaceful schooling fish compatible with Ghost Shrimp. They are very calm and love to explore the entire aquarium.

Black Neon Tetra

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) or more
  • Temperature Range: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, they appreciate a diverse diet of flake, freeze-dried and live foods
  • Adult Size: 1.4 inches (3.5 cm)

Known for their unique black and neon coloration, these Tetras offer a spectacle of vibrant hues. They are ideal for beginners due to their uncomplicated care needs. Plus, they enrich the aquarium environment manifesting ghost shrimp to thrive.

 

Pygmy Corydoras

Meet the Pygmy Corydoras, an adorable and peaceful option for your ghost shrimp tank. This friendly fish species is perfect for a serene setup.

pygmy corydoras

  • Compatibility: 5/5. Pygmy Corydoras get along excellently well with ghost shrimps.
  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters). Providing a bigger space enables more swimming area.
  • Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C). Maintaining an optimal range is crucial for their health.
  • Care Level: Moderate. They demand clean tank water, and periodic maintenance is required.
  • Temperament: Peaceful. It’s their quiet demeanor that makes them an ideal tank mate.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They appreciate a diet of pellets, flakes, and they’ll even help clean up leftover food.
  • Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). Their small size adds to their charm and compatibility with ghost shrimps.

 

Bristlenose Pleco

The Bristlenose Pleco is a peaceful fish species that shares an excellent compatibility level with Ghost Shrimps.

bristlenose pleco

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: 25 gallons (94.6 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
  • Care Level: Moderate
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, thrives on a diet of algae, vegetables, and sinking wafers.
  • Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)

Their hardy nature and unique appearance make them a delightful addition to your aquarium. Bristlenose Plecos are not aggressive or territorial, making them a perfect tank mate for Ghost Shrimps.

They stay relatively small, making them suitable for a range of tank sizes. Add some hiding spots and a variety of food, and they’ll cohabit peacefully in your ghost shrimp tank.

 

Rummy Nose Tetra

Rummy Nose Tetra is a beautiful fish species to consider as a ghost shrimp tank mate. It’s characterized by a bright red nose and stunning silver body.

rummy nose tetras

  • Compatibility: 4/5
  • Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75.7 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
  • Care Level: Easy to moderate
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; prefers a mix of flakes, granules, and invertebrate-based foods
  • Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

This species is famously peaceful, making it an excellent companion for your ghost shrimp. They enjoy swimming in schools, so having a group of them can add a vibrant touch to your aquarium.

 

Kuhli Loach

Kuhli Loach is a fascinating species to consider as a ghost shrimp mate. They are nocturnal, making them interesting to watch during your tank’s dusk. 

Kuhli Loach

  • Compatibility: 4/5. They are peaceful and can cohabitate well with ghost shrimps.
  • Tank Size: Minimum 20 gal (75.7 liters). Larger tanks are always better for these creatures.
  • Temperature Range: 75-85°F (24-29.5°C). Adjust your tank heater to their needs.
  • Care Level: Moderate. They need hiding spots in the tank like caves or thick plants.
  • Temperament: Peaceful. They can sometimes be shy.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Supply them with sinking pellet foods and the occasional live or frozen food.
  • Adult Size: 4 inches (10.16 cm). They are not a big fish, making them a great option for smaller tanks.

 

Celestial Pearl Danio

Celestial Pearl Danio, also known as ‘Galaxy Rasbora’, adds a dash of colour and sparkle to your tank.

celestial pearl danio

  • Compatibility: 3 out of 5 – They enjoy peaceful settings. Aggression can cause stress.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons (approx 38 liters) – They love room to swim.
  • Temperature Range: 73-79°F (approx 23-26°C) – They prefer slightly warm water.
  • Care Level: Easy – They are hardy creatures.
  • Temperament: Peaceful – They coexist well with others.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – They do well on flake food and like the occasional treat.
  • Adult Size: 1 inch (approx 2.5 cm) – Small but brightly colored, you can’t miss them.

Keep in mind to provide sufficient hiding spots and densely planted areas in the tank for them. This ensures their safety and boosts their comfort level. Celestial Pearl Danios can make radiant additions to your Ghost shrimp tank.

 

Glowlight Tetra

Glowlight Tetra is a colorful, peaceful species that you’ll like to have as Ghost Shrimp tank mates. Originating from South America, they enhance the tank’s vibrancy, yet won’t pose a threat to your shrimp.

glowlight tetra

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, ease with flaked fish foods or frozen ones.
  • Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.35 cm)

Their low-maintenance nature and peaceful demeanor make them a perfect match for your Ghost Shrimp tank. A tank decorated with dense vegetation and dim lights will recreate their natural habitat, contributing to their overall health and well-being.

 

Harlequin Rasbora

The Harlequin Rasbora is a delightful addition to any Ghost Shrimp tank. With its vibrant colors and playful antics, this fish is sure to bring joy and vitality to your aquatic environment.

harlequin rasbora

  • Compatibility: 4/5
  • Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 72-81°F (22-27°C)
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, gladly accepts a wide assortment of foods.
  • Adult Size: Around 2 inches (5 cm)

Although they are active swimmers, Harlequin Rasboras aren’t aggressive, creating a relaxing and congenial habitat for your Ghost Shrimp. Their shared preference for mild water temperatures and their compatibility mean you can peacefully cohabitate these lovely creatures in your aquarium.

 

Zebra Danio

Zebra Danios, with their signature horizontal stripes, make a striking addition to any aquarium. Originally from South Asia, they are amicable and adapt well to new environments.

golden zebra danio

Compatibility: 5 out of 5
Tank Size: 10 gal (40 liters)
Temperature Range: 64-77°F (18-25°C)
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. Regular feedings with a mixture of dry and fresh foods.
Adult Size: 2 in (5 cm)

They bring movement and color to any tank, living harmoniously with other peaceful species, including ghost shrimps. Don’t let their energetic behavior fool you; Zebras are easy to care for and breed. They like slightly acidic to neutral water. Remember to feed them a diverse diet to keep them healthy and thriving.

 

Endler’s Livebearers

Endler’s Livebearers, with a Compatibility rating of 4 out of 5, are known for their peaceful behavior and harmonious nature, hence, they often make an excellent choice as tank mates for Ghost Shrimp.

endler guppy tank mates

  • Compatibility: 4/5 
  • Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. They require a balanced mix of plants and small crustaceans for diet.
  • Adult Size: 1.8 inches (4.5 cm)

Despite their small size, they are active, vibrant, and full of personality. Their eye-catching colors would enrich the diversity and beauty of your tank. However, their feeding habits need to be observed carefully. They should not be overfed, as it may lead to obesity and possible health issues.

 

White Cloud Minnow

The White Cloud Minnow, a peaceful fish species, is an excellent tank mate for your Ghost Shrimp. This species is known for its low aggression and compatibility with other tank mates.

white cloud minnow

  • Compatibility: 4/5
  • Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-75 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 64-72F (18-22C)
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; The White Cloud Minnow will consume a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.
  • Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

Known for their small size, these minnows are as non-threatening to your shrimp as they come! With simple care needs and a friendly temperament, they’re a breeze to look after alongside your Ghost Shrimp.

 

Golden Pencilfish

Notable for their striking, sleek bodies, Golden Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) make excellent tank mates for Ghost Shrimp. Their calming temperament and non-aggressive behavior foster a peaceful environment.

golden pencilfish nannostomus beckfordi

  • Compatibility: 4 out of 5
  • Tank Size: Requires at least a 20-gallon (approx 75-litre) aquarium
  • Temperature Range: Thrives best in the range of 74-82 degrees F (23-28 degrees C)
  • Care Level: Requires moderate care, suitable for intermediate aquarium keepers
  • Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive, they prefer to swim in schools
  • Diet & Feeding: Obligate omnivores; they enjoy a balanced diet of flakes, pellets, and small live foods
  • Adult Size: Approximately 2-2.5 inches long (5-6 cm)

Remember, their preference for a densely planted tank and their tranquil demeanor makes Golden Pencilfish a great choice as a Ghost Shrimp companion.

 

Glowlight Rasbora

The Glowlight Rasbora is a vibrant species, known for its shimmering golden stripe. For your Ghost Shrimp, this fish is an ideal companion.

glowlight rasbora

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-29°C)
  • Care Level: Intermediate
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, accepts most flake foods
  • Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)

It’s crucial to pair your Ghost Shrimp with peaceful tank mates, and the Glowlight Rasbora fits the bill. They are middle-swimming fish, giving ample space for your shrimps. The optimum tank size for Glowlight Rasboras ranges from 10 to 20 gallons, providing enough area for both the shrimp and the fish.

They prefer a temperature of 72-82°F, which is also suitable for Ghost Shrimps. Although slightly tricky to care for, their peaceful nature and compatibility make them worth it.

 

Japanese Ricefish

Japanese Ricefish, also known as medaka, are delicate, petite fish that hail from Rice paddies, shallow ponds, and streams in East Asia. Their peaceful temperament and modest size make them suitable companions for Ghost Shrimp.

japanese rice fish oryzias latipes

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (approx. 38 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 64-82 °F (approx. 18-28 °C)
  • Care Level: Easy to moderate
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous — provide them a balanced diet of commercially prepared flake foods and live or frozen invertebrates.
  • Adult Size: 1.6 inches (approx. 4 cm)

With their resilience and low maintenance, Japanese Ricefish can brighten up your Ghost Shrimp tank, adding both color and activity.

 

Dwarf Pencilfish

Dwarf Pencilfish, referred to scientifically as ‘Nannostomus marginatus’, are excellent companions for your Ghost Shrimp. These petite and colorful fish don’t intimidate or threaten the Ghost Shrimp, ensuring a peaceful tank environment.

dwarf pencilfish

Dwarf Pencilfish Photo by Mobile Gnome CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

  • Compatibility: 5/5
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons (37.85 liters)
  • Temperature Range: 73-81°F (22.8-27.2°C)
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; readily accepts flakes, pellets, and brine shrimp
  • Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)

The Dwarf Pencilfish remains mostly in the middle and top parts of the tank, decreasing the chance for conflicts over territory. It’s simplicity in care, diverse diet, and friendly nature make it a perfect tank mate for Ghost Shrimp.

 

Cardinal Tetra

The Cardinal Tetra is a vibrantly colored fish species that can liven up any community tank.

cardinal tetras

  • Compatibility: 5/5 – Cardinal Tetras are peaceful and blend well with Ghost Shrimps.
  • Tank size: 15 gal (57 liters) – They appreciate plenty of swimming space.
  • Temperature range: 73-81°F (23-27°C) – Cardinal Tetras thrive best in warm waters.
  • Care Level: Easy – They pose nominal challenges for aquarists.
  • Temperament: Peaceful – They coexist harmoniously with other peaceful species.
  • Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – They enjoy a diet of flakes, pellets, or live food.
  • Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm) – They are small and non-threatening to Ghost Shrimps.

Conclusion

In the world of aquarium hobbyists, Ghost Shrimp are truly remarkable and unique creatures that bring a splash of mystery and beauty to any tank. Choosing the right tank mates for your Ghost Shrimp ensures harmony in your aquarium and a higher chance for a thriving community.

We’d love to hear from you – feel free to leave a comment sharing your Ghost Shrimp tank mates’ experiences!

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