can cory catfish live with shrimp

Can Cory Catfish Live with Shrimp? The Complete Guide

Cory catfish and shrimp are two of the most popular fishkeeping pets Their peaceful nature and active bottom-dwelling lifestyle make them a joy to watch

As an aquarium enthusiast, you may be wondering if you can keep cory catfish and shrimp together In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore if and how these two species can coexist in an aquarium.

Overview

Cory catfish and shrimp generally make excellent tank mates. Most cory species are peaceful bottom feeders that prefer to keep to themselves. Shrimp also tend to mind their own business, focusing on grazing on algae and biofilm.

However, there are a few factors to consider:

• Cory species – Some are more likely to nip at shrimp
• Shrimp size – Small shrimp like cherries are more vulnerable
• Tank size – Overcrowding increases aggression
• Hiding spots – Shrimp need places to retreat to
• Alternative foods – Well-fed corys are less likely to hunt shrimp

By choosing docile cory varieties, providing plenty of space and enrichment, and feeding a varied diet, corys and shrimp can live together harmoniously.

Cory Catfish Species Compatibility

With over 200 species, cory catfish vary greatly in size, behavior, and diet. When selecting corys to house with shrimp, stick to peaceful varieties. Here are some top shrimp-safe options:

• Pygmy Cory: One of the smallest cory species, pygmy corys grow under 1 inch and do not view adult shrimp as prey. They are an excellent choice for nano tanks.

• Panda Cory: These charismatic corys are a staple in community tanks. Reaching 2 inches, they are a manageable size for shrimp. Their primarily vegetarian diet is also a plus.

• Sterbai Cory: Known for their striking cream and brown markings, sterbai corys grow to 2.5 inches. They tend to be very peaceful and great community fish.

• Habrosus Cory: Topping out around 1 inch, habrosus corys make a lively addition to a shrimp tank. Their diminutive size prevents them from eating adult shrimp.

Other docile, shrimp-safe cory species include peppered, albino, and juli. Avoid notoriously nippy corys like emerald green.

Shrimp Species Compatibility

Most common aquarium shrimp can coexist with small, peaceful cory species. Here are some top choices:

• Amano Shrimp: Their larger size of 2+ inches makes them unappealing as prey. They also help control algae, benefiting the tank.

• Ghost Shrimp: Practically transparent, ghost shrimp are adept hiders. Their minimal bioload is a plus in a community tank.

• Red Cherry Shrimp: A colorful staple, these shrimp reproduce readily. Their small size means they may get eaten, but their high numbers compensate.

• Bamboo Shrimp: Reaching over 3 inches, bamboo shrimp are too large for corys to bother. Their filter feeding lifestyle also avoids competition.

Avoid more aggressive shrimp like vampire shrimp that may harm docile corys. Very small shrimp like snowball are also more vulnerable to being eaten.

Tank Size

For any community aquarium, bigger is better. In a spacious tank, corys and shrimp are less likely to encounter each other and less prone to aggression from territorial disputes.

For a group of 5-6 corys and 10-15 shrimp:

• 10 gallons is too small and will cause issues with water quality.

• 20 gallons provides ample room, allowing the species to spread out. This is ideal for a start.

• 30+ gallons gives maximum space for best behavior, growth, and enrichment.

Be sure not to overstock the tank. Follow the standard 1 inch of fish per gallon for corys. Shrimp have a negligible bioload.

Hiding Spots

Shrimp feel most secure when given plenty of hiding spots. Here are some easy ways to enrich their habitat:

• Plants: Live plants like moss, ferns, and stem plants offer endless nooks. Silk plants are a good alternative.

• Decor: Shrimp love exploring caves and tunnels. Provide rocks, wood, and ceramics with holes and openings.

• Substrate: A fine gravel or sandy substrate lets shrimp burrow and take cover when needed.

Proper Aquarium Maintenance

Keep water parameters stable with regular partial water changes and filter maintenance. Ideal conditions for both corys and shrimp include:

• Temperature: 68-79°F
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Hardness: 5-15 dGH

Test ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates routinely. Use additives like Seachem Stability to promote healthy bacteria colonies.

Alternative Food Sources

Even the most peaceful community fish may opportunistically nip at tankmates. Ensure corys are well-fed with a variety of foods so they do not view shrimp as prey. Offer:

• Sinking wafers and pellets to satisfy their bottom-feeding lifestyle
• Protein-rich foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia
• Blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber for fiber

Avoid overfeeding, as excess food will degrade water quality.

Breeding Caveats

While adult shrimp are generally safe, their babies and juveniles are vulnerable to being eaten. Here are some tips if breeding shrimp:

• Provide dense planting for newborns to hide in
• Use a mesh breeder box to protect babies
• Remove shrimp babies and juveniles to a separate rearing tank
• Introduce new generations back to the main tank once they are 1/2 inch +

Conclusion

Cory catfish and shrimp can make delightful tankmates given the right conditions. Select small, peaceful cory species and larger shrimp varieties. Give them plenty of space, hiding spots, clean water, and a varied diet.

While adult shrimp will be unbothered, do take care to protect their offspring and juveniles. With some planning and care, you can enjoy the best of both worlds by keeping corys and shrimp!