Livestock compatible with Rotala Blood Red
Rotala sp.
6 rated pairings from the Rotala Blood Red care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why.
Excellent matches
4 · Same water, complementary zones, no conflict.
Red Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
5 gal min · 1.2" adult · Peaceful
Shrimp graze on algae without damaging healthy plant tissue and thrive in soft, acidic water matching this plant's requirements.

Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Small, peaceful algae-eaters that won't uproot or damage stems; prefer soft water and low bioload.

Dwarf Hairgrass
Eleocharis parvula
Complementary foreground plant that shares identical water parameter requirements and creates a cohesive scape.
Bucephalandra
Bucephalandra sp.
Low-light companion plant with similar nutrient demands; pairs well in high-tech setups for visual contrast.
Good matches
2 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.
Ember Tetra
Hyphessobrycon amandae
10 gal min · 0.8" adult · Peaceful
Tiny, gentle fish that add movement without disturbing the plant; thrive in acidic, soft water conditions.

German Blue Ram
Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
20 gal min · 3" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful dwarf cichlid that prefers soft, acidic water; will not uproot or consume healthy plant tissue.
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.