Catfish are popular among aquarium enthusiasts, but finding the right tank mates can be a challenge. Boasting over 2,000 species worldwide, these active bottom-dwellers add dynamism and diversity to any tank setup.
In this post, we’ll examine which fish make for good companions and offer guidance on how best to house your catfish with them. Let’s dive in – your perfect catfish community is just a few tips away.
What Is the Ideal Environment for Catfish?
A well-maintained aquarium is essential for catfish to thrive. Water parameters such as temperature, pH levels, and hardness need constant monitoring. Most catfish species prefer freshwater environments with warm temperatures between 74-80°F, a neutral pH level around 7, and moderate water hardness.
It’s important to keep these factors stable as fluctuations can stress the fish.
The ideal catfish habitat mimics their natural environment in South America’s Amazon River Basin or Orinoco River Basin. Aquarists often incorporate elements like vegetation, rocks, driftwood that provide hiding spaces and recreate river bottoms of these regions where most types are found.
Catfish are nocturnal feeders who appreciate dimly lit settings; hence subdued lighting would make them feel at home.
Shallow tanks with ample floor space better suit bottom-dwelling varieties like Cory Catfish while taller tanks benefit others who explore various depths like Pictus Catfish. Daily diet varies among species but being largely omnivorous, they eat pellets along with live food such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.
Next up on our list is an intriguing subject: Are Catfish Good Tank Mates?
Are Catfish Good Tank Mates?
Catfish are known to make excellent tank mates due to their peaceful nature. They typically coexist harmoniously with several fish species, displaying minimal aggression. Distinct types of catfish such as the Pictus and Cory catfish interact well with other aquatic creatures including snails, shrimp, and a variety of peaceful fish breeds.
It’s important to note that some catfish like the Upside-down catfish show affinity towards specific companions – in this case, corydoras catfish.
Being bottom dwellers and nocturnal feeders, most varieties of catfish don’t interfere or conflict with fish occupying other parts of an aquarium. They add value not just by promoting harmony but also aiding in maintaining cleanliness by feeding on leftover scraps at the tank bottom.
Glass Catfish is one kind that prefers sticking around their own species yet doesn’t stir up any trouble for others sharing their space. In general terms, given their calm demeanor mixed with practical benefits they bring along regarding maintenance; Catfish indeed qualify as great tank buddies for a wide range of tropical aquarium fish.
This naturally leads us now to discuss which specific breeds would be best associated with our friendly whiskered swimmers?.
What Are the Best Tank Mates for Catfish?
Giant Danios are fantastic tank mates for Catfish. They share a similar love for moving water and their peaceful temperament allows them to coexist without conflict. Rainbow Sharks, although solitary, can also thrive in a tank with catfish due to their bottom-dwelling nature which keeps them out of the way of other fish.
Opaline Gourami is another excellent companion for catfish. They prefer a calm environment that matches the demeanor of most catfish species. Bristlenose Plecos like the same type of hiding places as catfish, making it easy to arrange an aquarium suitable for both species.
Bolivian Rams offer great companionship because they are non-aggressive and will leave your catfish alone. Kribensis Cichlids make good partners too, given that they occupy the middle areas leaving plenty space at the bottom for Catfishes.
Swordtails, Mollies, Platies and Guppies bring color and variation in behaviors adding more life to your aquarium setup.
Neon Tetras have become compatible companions due to their peaceful nature but should be kept in large groups to avoid being eaten when small by larger aqua-mates including our Cat-friend here! Harlequin Rasboras interact well with larger fishes making them perfect roommates while Cherry Barbs harmonize perfectly owing their shy disposition.
Lastly, Zebra Danios don’t mind sharing tank-space getting along splendidly with variety of species whilst White Cloud Mountain Minnows gel pretty well considering they aren’t easily intimidated or frightened by bigger fish buddies such as Catfish.
1. Giant Danios
Giant Danios are exotic and popular fish species that make a great addition to home aquariums. These peaceful and docile fish have a beautiful appearance, with their iridescent gold coloration.
What sets them apart from other Danio species is their larger size; adult Giant Danios can grow to be two or three times the size of other Danios. With their stunning appearance and peaceful nature, Giant Danios can be excellent tank mates for catfish in your aquarium setup.
2. Rainbow Sharks
Rainbow sharks are highly territorial and aggressive fish. They have a sleek body, dark coloration, and striking red fins. These semi-aggressive fish are bottom dwellers in the tank.
Due to their temperament, rainbow sharks can be challenging to keep.
3. Opaline Gourami
Opaline Gouramis are popular freshwater fish that make great tank mates for catfish. These beginner-friendly fish have a peaceful temperament, making them an excellent choice for community tanks.
Opaline Gouramis are known for their attractive appearance, with vibrant colors and unique patterns on their bodies. They also exhibit interesting behaviors, such as building bubble nests during breeding time.
Hardy and adaptable, Opaline Gouramis can thrive in various water conditions, allowing them to easily coexist with catfish in the same aquarium. Their compatibility and eye-catching beauty make them a fantastic addition to any catfish tank setup.
4. Bristlenose Pleco
The Bristlenose Pleco is a peaceful and non-aggressive fish that can be housed with a variety of other peaceful species in an aquarium. They make great tank mates for Neon Tetras, Glass Catfish, Zebra Danios, Guppies, Platy fish, and Molly fish.
These plecos are tolerant of semi-aggressive fish as long as they are not harassed or threatened. They can happily live in community tanks with other peaceful species like Platy fish and Neon Tetras.
So if you’re looking for compatible tank mates for your Bristlenose Pleco, these species are worth considering.
5. Bolivian Ram
The Bolivian Ram is a peaceful fish species that can coexist with tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and some types of catfish. They are not schooling fish but do best with a group of six to eight other Bolivian Rams.
Unlike other Cichlid species, they are more peaceful and commonly found in community aquariums.
6. Kribensis Cichlid
Kribensis cichlids are peaceful fish and are commonly found in community aquariums. They get along well with other passive fish like dwarf cichlids, tetras, and small barbs. However, it’s important to avoid housing them with feisty or territorial fish as they can become stressed by aggressive behavior.
Kribs form lifelong bonds once they mate and have a tendency to chase and nip at slower-moving fish. This makes them compatible with certain catfish tank mates.
7. Swordtail
Swordtail fish are social creatures that thrive when kept in groups. They are highly active and require larger tanks to accommodate their energetic nature. The number of swordtails you keep together should be considered, as overcrowding can lead to stress and aggression among the fish.
Keep in mind that there are rare varieties of swordtails available for enthusiasts who enjoy collecting unique specimens. It’s important to provide a tank size appropriate for the needs of these lively fish.
8. Mollies
Mollies are excellent tank mates for catfish due to their friendly and peaceful nature. These fish can coexist harmoniously, especially when kept in larger schools. Mollies are often compatible with other livebearer species, such as platys, which have similar temperaments and dietary preferences.
They can also get along well with small schooling fish like tetras. With their vibrant colors and active swimming patterns, mollies add visual interest to any aquarium while creating a lively and diverse community of fish.
9. Platies
Platies are colorful and vibrant freshwater fish that make excellent tank mates for catfish. They are closely related to molly fish and can be kept together without any issues. Platies are also compatible with other fish like swordtails and minnows, creating a lively and diverse aquarium.
However, it’s important to note that Cory catfish may not be the best choice as tank mates for platies. With their beautiful colors and peaceful nature, platies bring a delightful addition to any catfish tank setup.
10. Guppies
Guppies are popular freshwater fish that add vibrancy to any community aquarium. With their vibrant colors and attractive appearance, guppies are a great choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
These small fish can thrive in tanks of various sizes, including 10-gallon and 20-gallon tanks. Guppies are known for their peaceful disposition, making them suitable tank mates for other fish, snails, and even shrimp.
In particular, guppies and swordtails get along well together, creating a colorful and harmonious tank environment.
11. Neon Tetras
Neon tetras are commonly kept in tanks with catfish as their tank mates. They get along well with other compatible species of catfish such as Corydoras and Plecos. In addition to that, cardinal tetras and mollies make great tank mates for neon tetras too.
If you’re looking for more options, consider adding loaches, African dwarf frogs, or angelfish to the tank. And here’s an interesting fact: neon tetras can coexist peacefully with cherry shrimp in the same tank!
12. Harlequin Rasboras
Harlequin rasboras are peaceful shoaling fish that make a great addition to any community aquarium. With their beautiful shimmery color, they are a popular choice among aquarists. These small fish can be kept in tanks with other harlequin rasboras, creating a stunning display of color and movement.
They also get along well with neon tetras and cardinal tetras, making them excellent tank mates for these species as well. If you’re looking to add some variety to your tank, consider adding cory catfish or plecos as suitable companions for harlequin rasboras.
13. Cherry Barbs
Cherry barbs are popular tank mates for catfish in aquariums. These active and peaceful schooling fish thrive when kept in groups of six or more. They are considered hardy and resistant to diseases, making them a reliable choice for any community tank.
With their non-aggressive nature, cherry barbs get along well with other fish species. So if you’re looking for compatible companions for your catfish, consider adding some lively cherry barbs to the mix!
14. Zebra Danios
Zebra Danios are peaceful and docile fish that make great tank mates. They generally get along well with most other fish in the aquarium. However, it’s important to note that Zebra Danios may view large predatory tank mates as foodand should be kept away from them.
Some good potential tank mates for Zebra Danios include similar-sized danios, barbs, corydoras catfish, tetras, loaches, mollies, platys, and swordtails. These fish have similar environmental requirements and temperaments, making them compatible companions for Zebra Danios in the aquarium.
15. White Cloud Mountain Minnows
White Cloud Mountain Minnows are small, colorful fish that make great tank mates for other peaceful species. They are compatible with Zebra Danios, Swordtails, Bloodfin Tetras, and Odessa Barbs.
These fish share a similar size and can peacefully coexist in a community aquarium. White Cloud Mountain Minnows are known for their vibrant colors, often compared to neon tetras. Additionally, these fish prefer cooler waters, making them suitable for temperate tanks.
What Fish Should Not Be Kept With Catfish?
Angel Fish should not be kept with catfish due to their sharp fins, which can harm the catfish. Additionally, male cichlids should be avoided as tank mates for catfish because they can display territorial and aggressive behavior.
Smaller fish should also be avoided, as they may become prey for the catfish. Instead, it is recommended to choose larger, more active fish like tetras, barbs, or gouramis to keep with your catfish.
Finally, aggressive or predatory fish should not be paired with catfish in a tank to ensure the safety and well-being of all the inhabitants.
1. Angel Fish
Angel fish, also known as angelfish, are not recommended tank mates for catfish. While they may look beautiful with their distinct and graceful fins, angel fish can be territorial and aggressive towards other fish in the tank.
This behavior can cause stress to the catfish and potentially lead to conflicts or even injury. It is best to keep angel fish separate from catfish in order to maintain a peaceful and harmonious environment in your aquarium.
2. Flat-Nosed and Antenna Catfish
The Red-tailed Catfish, also known as the flat-nosed catfish, banana catfish, and antenna catfish, can be suitable tank mates for other freshwater aquarium fish. These catfish are part of the Pimelodidae family and are known for their distinct physical features such as their flat nose and long barbels or “antennas.” They can coexist peacefully with compatible fish species in a well-maintained aquarium.
However, it’s important to ensure that the tank is large enough to accommodate their size, as Red-tailed Catfish can grow quite large.
3. Large and Aggressive Fish
Large and aggressive fish can be problematic tank mates for catfish. These types of fish tend to be territorial and may bully or harm the catfish. Jewels Cichlids, for example, are known for their aggression, especially during mating season.
Male fish, especially cichlids, can display territorial behavior that may result in aggression towards other tankmates. It is important to avoid keeping large and aggressive fish with your catfish to ensure a peaceful and safe environment for all the inhabitants of your aquarium.
4. Similar Looking or Closely Related Fish
Similar looking or closely related fish can pose potential problems when kept with catfish in a tank. For example, the Pristella tetra is closely related to neon tetras and rummy nose tetras.
While they may appear similar and tempting to keep together, introducing them to a catfish tank can lead to aggression and territorial disputes. It’s important to research the species thoroughly before adding them to ensure they are compatible with your catfish and won’t cause any harm or stress.
5. Small Fish
Small fish can be risky tank mates for catfish. Due to their size, they may become easy targets and potential food sources for larger catfish. It’s important to choose tank mates that are similar in size or at least large enough to not be seen as prey.
Keeping small fish like neon tetras or guppies with catfish can lead to them being eaten, so it’s best to avoid this combination. Instead, opt for larger species like swordtails or mollies that can withstand the presence of catfish without becoming a meal.
How to Introduce New Fish to a Catfish Tank?
Looking for the perfect tank mates for your catfish? We’ve got you covered! Did you know that certain fish can actually thrive alongside catfish? In this article, we’ll explore the best companions for catfish and how to create a harmonious aquarium environment. Get ready to discover some fin-tastic combinations that will make your tank a sight to behold!
Freshwater Fish Compatibility Chart
The Freshwater Fish Compatibility Chart serves as a reliable and accessible resource for aquarium owners to determine which freshwater fish species can peacefully cohabit in the same tank. This chart, downloadable as a PDF, is a straightforward guide to choosing compatible tank mates for your catfish or any other freshwater fish species you may have.
| Fish Species | Compatible | Not Compatible |
| Catfish | Giant Danios, Rainbow Sharks, Opaline Gourami, Bristlenose Pleco, Bolivian Ram, Kribensis Cichlid, Swordtail, Mollies, Platies, Guppies, Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Cherry Barbs, Zebra Danios, White Cloud Mountain Minnows | Angel Fish, Flat-Nosed and Antenna Catfish, Large and Aggressive Fish, Similar Looking or Closely Related Fish, Small Fish |
| Giant Danios | Catfish, Rainbow Sharks, Opaline Gourami, Bristlenose Pleco, Bolivian Ram, Kribensis Cichlid, Swordtail, Mollies, Platies, Guppies, Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Cherry Barbs, Zebra Danios, White Cloud Mountain Minnows | Large and Aggressive Fish, Similar Looking or Closely Related Fish, Small Fish |
The chart categorizes fish into groups of compatible and not compatible, thus making the task of choosing tank mates less daunting. However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that these are general guidelines and individual fish behavior can significantly influence compatibility. A large aquarium with plenty of hiding spots can also help maintain harmony among different fish species. Now, let’s delve into the dietary requirements of catfish and their impact on their tank mates.
Feeding Catfish: Dietary Requirements and Impact on Tank Mates
Catfish have specific dietary requirements that need to be met for their overall health and well-being. They are omnivores, which means they eat both plant matter and live prey. In the wild, catfish feed on insects, worms, small fish, crustaceans, and plant material like algae.
To replicate this diet in captivity, catfish should be fed a combination of pellets or flakes as a base diet along with occasional live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
It’s important to note that overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and obesity in catfish. Therefore, it is recommended to feed them small portions two to three times a day instead of one large meal.
Additionally, some species of catfish are more aggressive with food than others. It’s crucial to monitor tank mates during feeding time to ensure everyone gets their fair share.
Understanding the dietary requirements of your catfish is vital not only for their health but also for the well-being of their tank mates. By providing them with appropriate nutrition and monitoring feeding behaviors in the aquarium setting, you can create a harmonious environment for all inhabitants.
Catfish Behavior With Different Tank Mates: What to Expect?
Catfish behavior can vary depending on the tank mates they are kept with. Pictus Catfish, for example, are generally not aggressive and will only eat other fish if they are too small.
Synodontis Catfish, on the other hand, come in over 120 different species but typically have a similar appearance. Upside Down Catfish require specific care and can be more sensitive to changes in their environment.
Cory Catfish are known for being peaceful and hardy, which makes them popular among aquarists. While they generally do not show aggression towards tank mates, if they do become aggressive it is usually in the form of chasing rather than attacking or biting.
Overall, when considering catfish behavior with different tank mates, it’s important to research the specific species you plan to keep together and understand their compatibility. By doing so, you can create a harmonious aquarium environment where all fish can thrive.
FAQ
Can Catfish Live Alone?
Catfish are social creatures that prefer to live in groups rather than alone. Keeping catfish alone can cause them stress and lead to health issues. It is recommended to keep at least two catfish of the same type together in a tank.
By doing so, they will feel more secure and comfortable in their environment. So, if you’re considering getting a catfish as a pet, remember that it’s best to provide them with companionship by keeping them in a group rather than leaving them on their own.
How Many Catfish Can You Keep Together?
Most catfish are social creatures and can be kept together in a group. The number of catfish you can keep together depends on the species and the size of your tank. For small catfish species, such as Corydoras or Otocinclus, a group of five to six individuals is recommended for a 30-gallon tank.
Larger catfish, like Plecos or Pictus Catfish, require more space and should be provided with at least a 30-gallon tank. It’s important to consider the adult size of your catfish when determining how many to keep together, as overcrowding can lead to stress and health problems.
What to Do if Your Catfish Is Aggressive?
If your catfish is displaying aggressive behavior towards other tank mates, it is important to take action to prevent any harm. First, observe the aggression and try to identify the triggers or specific fish that are causing the problem.
If possible, remove the aggressive catfish from the tank and place it in a separate tank or container for some time. This will help reduce stress levels and give other fish a chance to establish their territory.
Consider rearranging decorations, rocks, or plants in the main aquarium to disrupt established territories and provide hiding places for less dominant fish. Keep an eye on water parameters such as temperature, pH levels, and water hardness as these factors can sometimes contribute to aggression in catfish.
What Fish Can Live With Catfish in a Pond?
Many fish species can live harmoniously with catfish in a pond. Here are some suitable tank mates for catfish in a pond:
- Guppies
- Tetras
- Danios
- Rasboras
- Barbs
- Rainbowfish
- Bristlenose catfish
- Corydoras catfish
What Freshwater Fish Can Live Together in a Tank?
Many freshwater fish can live together harmoniously in a tank. Here are some examples of compatible tank mates:
- Apistogramma Dwarf Cichlid
- Green Neon Tetra
- African Cichlids
- Synodontis Catfish
- Rainbow Shark
- Tiger Barbs
- Guppies
- Tetras
- Danios
- Rasboras
- Barbs (some species)
- Rainbowfish
- Bristlenose Catfish
- Corydoras Catfish