While rasboras are generally peaceful, non-aggressive fish, they may opportunistically eat baby shrimp.
However, rasboras and shrimp species can coexist harmoniously with the right tank setup and shrimp species selection.
Here’s what you need to know to make it work.
Water Parameters
Fortunately, most rasboras and common freshwater shrimp have very similar water parameter needs.
Both prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH in the 6.5 – 7.5 range, moderately hard water with some mineral content and temperatures between 72-82°F.
As long as you choose shrimp and rasboras with overlapping environmental preferences, keeping the water conditions to both species’ liking is straightforward.
Tank Setup
While a 10-20 gallon planted tank is sufficient for a small rasbora school, a larger aquascape with more horizontal swimming room and ample hiding spots will reduce competition and interactions.
Include plenty of moss, plants like Java fern and Anubias that shrimp can graze on, as well as driftwood and rock crevices for shelter.
Adding supplemental food like algae wafers and blanched vegetables can also minimize rasboras seeing baby shrimp as food.
Shrimp Selection
Though most shrimp are potential rasbora cuisine if small enough, some species like Amano shrimp, ghost shrimp, and larger color varieties like red cherry shrimp or blue velvet shrimp will fare better than dwarf shrimp.
Their size makes them less likely to be eaten, and their grazing activity helps control algae and biofilm levels for the entire tank.
However, if you hope to breed shrimp intentionally, rasboras are probably not the best tank mates.
In Conclusion
Focus on species with similar needs, provide ample shelter and grazing surfaces, supplement food sources, and choose larger shrimp varieties for the best results.
Check water parameters routinely and have a backup plan in place in case aggression arises.
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