Swordtail and Cherry Barb: Can They Live Together?
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Swordtail | Cherry Barb | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water temperature | 72–82°F | 73–81°F | Overlap 73–81°F |
| pH | 7–8.4 | 6–7.5 | Overlap 7–7.5 |
| Hardness | 12–30 dGH | 5–15 dGH | Overlap 12–15 dGH |
| Adult size | 5.5″ | 2.0″ | 2.8× difference |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful | Both peaceful |
| Swim level | Mid | Mid | Same zone |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 20 gal | Together: 32 gal+ |
Shared water parameters
- Temperature both tolerate: 73–81°F
- pH both tolerate: 7–7.5
- Hardness both tolerate: 12–15 dGH
- Recommended combined tank: 32 gallons or larger
Risks and things to watch
Both occupy the mid zone
Competition for space and food is higher when two species share the same layer. Increase footprint rather than height.
Group requirements
Compatibility is not only about the two species getting along — each still needs its own social setup met inside the same tank.
- Swordtail — minimum group of 3. Budget tank space for the whole shoal, not one fish.
- Cherry Barb — minimum group of 6. Budget tank space for the whole shoal, not one fish.
Frequently asked questions
Can swordtail and cherry barb live together?
Yes — compatible. Swordtail and Cherry Barb are a good match. They share a workable temperature and pH window, neither is large enough to threaten the other, and temperaments are compatible. Give them at least 32 gallons once both group requirements are met.
What size tank do swordtail and cherry barb need together?
Plan for at least 32 gallons. Swordtail alone needs 20 gallons and Cherry Barb needs 20, but combined stocking needs headroom for filtration and swimming space, not just volume.
What temperature suits both species?
Both are comfortable between 73 and 81°F. Set the heater to the middle of that window and keep it stable.
What pH works for both?
Aim for pH 7–7.5, which sits inside both species' comfortable range.
Will swordtail eat cherry barb?
Unlikely. At 5.5″ versus 2.0″ the size gap is not large enough for predation, though fry and juveniles are never safe in a community tank.
How should the tank be arranged?
Use plants, wood and rock to break sight lines, keep open swimming space along the front, and add the more territorial species last so it cannot claim the whole tank before the other settles in.
Explore further
Assessment generated from our compatibility methodology: parameter overlap, adult size ratio, temperament and swimming zone. Reviewed by Marcus Rivera.