Cherry Barb and Zebra Danio Compatibility
Cherry Barb and Zebra Danio make a good match: temperature ranges overlap at 72–77°F, water chemistry aligns, and neither presents a meaningful behavioural or size risk. Plan on at least 20 gallons. Individual fish vary — observe behaviour during introduction.
Cherry Barb vs Zebra Danio at a glance
| Aspect | Cherry Barb | Zebra Danio |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | ~2 in | ~2 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 20 gal |
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 65–77°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful |
| Swimming zone | middle | top |
| Group size | 6+ | 6+ |
| Care level | easy | easy |
Overlap in temperature: 72–77°F. Overlap in pH: 6.5–7.5.
Why this verdict
- Temperature: Shared range of 72–77°F.
- Water parameters: Shared pH range of 6.5–7.5.
- Temperament: Both species are peaceful community fish.
- Adult size: Comparable adult sizes (~2" and ~2").
- Swimming zone: Complementary layers (middle + top) reduce competition for space.
- Schooling: Group sizes matter: Cherry Barb: keep at least 6; Zebra Danio: keep at least 6.
- Tank size: Plan for at least 20 gallons to satisfy both species.
Main risks
No standout risks — a peaceful pairing that works in a settled community tank.
Recommended tank
Plan on 20 gallons or larger for this pair. Suitable sizes: 20 gallon High, 20 gallon Long, 29 gallon.
Group sizes: Cherry Barb: keep at least 6; Zebra Danio: keep at least 6.
Sources
- FishBase — Scientific Database · Primary / scientific · https://www.fishbase.se/
- SeriouslyFish — Specialist Publication · High authority · https://www.seriouslyfish.com/
- Aquarium Forge editorial guidelines — Editorial Interpretation · Editorial interpretation
- FishBase — Scientific Database · Primary / scientific · https://www.fishbase.se/
- SeriouslyFish — Specialist Publication · High authority · https://www.seriouslyfish.com/
- Aquarium Forge editorial guidelines — Editorial Interpretation · Editorial interpretation
- Aquarium Forge editorial guidelines — Editorial Interpretation · Editorial interpretation
Compatibility verdicts are planning guidance, not guarantees — individual fish vary. Rule version 1.1 · Data reviewed: .
Frequently asked questions
Can Cherry Barb and Zebra Danio live together?
Our verdict is “Good Match”. Cherry Barb and Zebra Danio make a good match: temperature ranges overlap at 72–77°F, water chemistry aligns, and neither presents a meaningful behavioural or size risk. Plan on at least 20 gallons. Individual fish vary — observe behaviour during introduction.
What tank size do Cherry Barb and Zebra Danio need?
Plan for at least 20 gallons so both species have their minimum space — Cherry Barb needs 20+ gal and Zebra Danio needs 20+ gal. Adding length and cover reduces stress further.
What temperature do Cherry Barb and Zebra Danio share?
Their comfortable ranges overlap at 72–77°F. Hold the tank near the middle of that band and avoid the extremes of either species' range.
What are the main risks keeping Cherry Barb with Zebra Danio?
There are no standout behavioural or size risks — the usual care and a settled, well-filtered tank is enough.
How many Cherry Barb and Zebra Danio should I keep?
Cherry Barb: keep at least 6; Zebra Danio: keep at least 6. Group sizes matter for shoaling fish — too few and they become stressed and nippy.
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