Will guppies eat my cherry shrimp?

Adult shrimp are usually safe. Guppies may opportunistically eat newborn shrimplets, which is why a well-planted tank with hiding spots is important for colony growth.

How many cherry shrimp can I keep with guppies?

Start with 10-12 shrimp in a 10-gallon tank. If guppies are not actively hunting them, the colony will breed and grow. More plants mean higher survival rates for babies.

Do cherry shrimp need special food in a guppy tank?

Shrimp eat algae, biofilm, and leftover guppy flakes that fall to the bottom. Supplement with shrimp pellets or blanched zucchini once or twice a week.

Can Cherry Shrimp Live With Guppy?

By Alex WalshLast reviewed Apr 18, 2026

Yes

Yes, cherry shrimp and guppies coexist in 10 gallons or larger with overlapping temperatures of 72-80°F and pH of 7.0-7.8.

Why

Temperature overlap spans 72-80°F, covering both guppy's range and shrimp's range of 65-80°F.
Cherry shrimp are bottom-dwelling algae grazers and guppies are top-level swimmers, so they rarely interact.
A well-planted tank with java moss or java fern gives shrimp hiding spots from any curious guppy.
Cherry shrimp are too small and too armored to register as prey to guppies.

Minimum shared tank

10 gallons

Shared temperature range

72-80°F

What could go wrong

Guppies are omnivores that may pick at baby shrimp, so if you want the shrimp colony to grow, dense plant cover is essential. Adults are generally safe.