Shrimp make a tasty snack for many fish, including cichlids. But can you successfully keep shrimp with cichlids? The answer depends on the species of cichlid and individual personality of the fish. With care and planning, certain shrimp and cichlid combinations can live together peacefully.
Cichlid Diet and Feeding Behaviors
Cichlids are a diverse group of fish with varied feeding behaviors. Some cichlids are primarily herbivores, eating algae and plant material. Others are mainly piscivores feeding on small fish. Most are omnivores to some degree. They eat a combination of plant and animal foods like insects crustaceans, worms, and plankton.
Their natural diets give clues about which cichlids may prey on shrimp, Herbivorous cichlids like Tilapia are less likely to hunt shrimp, Carnivorous cichlids that feed on live foods pose more risk The majority of cichlids fall somewhere in between with a mixed omnivorous diet,
Feeding habits also play a role. Grazing cichlids that pick at algae and Aufwuchs may ignore shrimp. More aggressive hunters that actively chase small prey are more hazardous tankmates.
Shrimp Vulnerability
Not all shrimp have equal chances for survival with cichlids. Small shrimp like Ghost Shrimp and Neocaridina (Red Cherry Shrimp) are very vulnerable to predation. Their tiny size makes them an appetizing bite-sized snack.
Larger shrimp stand a better chance. Amano Shrimp and Vampire Shrimp reach sizes over 2 inches (5 cm) when fully grown. Their bulk and tough exoskeleton help protect them from hungry cichlids.
Even large shrimp are not completely immune to being eaten, however. Any shrimp small enough to fit into a cichlid’s mouth may become a target.
Cichlid and Shrimp Combinations
Certain cichlids and shrimp offer better odds for peaceful coexistence. Here are some possible pairings:
- Vampire Shrimp + Angelfish
- Amano Shrimp + Bolivian Ram
- Ghost Shrimp + Kribensis
- Bamboo Shrimp + Discus
- Red Cherry Shrimp + Apistogramma
- Neocaridina + Ramirezi
The above combinations can work in mature, well-planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots. The shrimp need areas to retreat from cichlid threats. Aquascaping with rock caves, driftwood, and dense plantings provides security.
Avoid combining aggressive cichlids like Oscars with any shrimp. Predatory cichlids that swallow prey whole pose too much risk. Slow-moving species like plecos make better tankmates for predatory cichlids.
Other Factors for Success
Avoid overcrowding. Provide plenty of space and resources to reduce competition between cichlids and shrimp. A heavily stocked tank raises stress levels and aggression.
Supplement food sources to satiate the cichlids’ appetite. Shrimp grazing on biofilm typically won’t replace the cichlids’ nutritonal needs. Feed a high-quality cichlid diet like pellets or flakes.
Introduce the shrimp first before adding cichlids. Shrimp already established in the tank have a better chance than newcomers added to an existing cichlid tank.
Monitor all new additions closely for signs of aggression. Have a backup plan to remove harassers.
The Verdict
Can cichlids successfully live with shrimp? Yes, with careful selection of species and proper tank setup. Not all cichlid and shrimp combos end in disaster. Start with an omnivorous cichlid known for peaceful temperament. Choose larger shrimp species that can coexist without becoming an expensive snack. With patience and observation, you may achieve shrimp and cichlid harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cichlids eat shrimp?
Predatory and carnivorous cichlids like Oscars and Jack Dempseys pose the greatest shrimp eating risk. Aggressive feeders like Convicts also view shrimp as prey. Herbivorous cichlids prefer algae and plants over shrimp. Omnivorous cichlids have varying tendencies for shrimp predation.
How can I stop my cichlids from eating shrimp?
Provide plenty of hiding places like rock caves and dense plants. Supplement with cichlid pellets and protein sources like brine shrimp. Introduce the shrimp first before adding cichlids. Choose larger shrimp species like Amano and Vampire Shrimp over smaller varieties.
What shrimp go well with cichlids?
Larger shrimp like Amano, Ghost, and Vampire Shrimp have better survival odds with cichlids. Small shrimp like Red Cherry Shrimp often become expensive snacks. Bamboo, Flower, and Wood Shrimp work well in some cichlid community tanks.
Can I put ghost shrimp with African cichlids?
Use caution when mixing Ghost Shrimp with African Rift Lake cichlids like Mbuna. The small size of Ghost Shrimp makes them vulnerable to predation. Providing ample hiding spots and supplemental feeding helps improve their chances. Start with adult Ghost Shrimp over smaller juveniles.
Will angelfish eat cherry shrimp?
Angelfish may snacks on juvenile Cherry Shrimp, but adults are often too large for them to swallow. Keeping a heavily planted tank with driftwood and rockwork helps provide escape routes. Supplementing the angelfish diet reduces predation on shrimp. Adding the shrimp first before introducing angelfish boosts success.
