Are you struggling to find the best companions for your tetra fish? Understandably, selecting suitable tank mates can be challenging given each species’ unique requirements.
This blog post will provide clear and simple information about 20 ideal tank mates for tetras, ensuring a harmonious aquatic life. Ready to create the perfect underwater paradise? Dive in!
What Is the Ideal Environment for Tetra?
Tetras love warm water. The temperature should be around 72°-76°F. This keeps them healthy and happy. They also need a tank that is not too small. A small tank can make tetras act mean.
The water in the tank should be clean and clear. Tetra fish don’t like dirty or muddy water. They prefer soft, slightly acid water with a pH level between 6 and 7.5.
Keep the light low in the tank but give them many plants to hide in. These are shy fish who feel safe when there are places to hide.
Are Tetra Good Tank Mates?
Tetras make good tank mates. They are peaceful fish that like to live in groups. Their calm nature makes them a great fit for many tanks.
It’s vital to know the needs of your tetras and their tank mates. Tetras need friends who have the same love for clean water and good food. The size of the fish also matters. Tetras do best with other small or medium-sized fish.
Harlequin rasboras, guppies, dwarf gouramis, and zebra danios work well with tetras in a shared space. These types of fish have the same ways of living as tetras do. Also, shrimp such as cherry or ghost shrimp can happily coexist with neon tetras in an aquarium.
What Are the Best Tank Mates for Tetra?
Tetra fish have many friends in the water. They do well with other small, peaceful fish. Zebra Danios, Swordtail, and Guppy are all good pals for Tetra. Other types like Molly, Hatchetfish, and Dwarf Gourami also get along well.
You can add a few others too! Corydoras Catfish and Shrimp (Ghost or Cherry) enjoy their company. The Black Neon Tetra makes another good friend as do the Cardinal Tetra and Ember Tetra.
Others that work well include Celestial Pearl Danio, Endler’s Livebearer, Otocinclus Catfish, Kuhli Loach, Pygmy Corydoras.
More pals to consider are the Cherry Barb and White Cloud Mountain Minnow. And lastly but not least you could try Bristlenose Pleco or Harlequin Rasboras clubs that make great tank mates for your treasured tetras! Make sure these new buddies offer gentle behavior similar to tetras’ own style to ensure they fit in seamlessly into their new home.
Harlequin Rasboras
Harlequin Rasboras are small, peaceful fish that make great tank mates for tetras. They have beautiful orange and black markings, which add color and vibrancy to any aquarium. Harlequin Rasboras are schooling fish, so it’s best to keep them in groups of at least six individuals.
They get along well with other Harlequin Rasboras and can also be kept with Neon Tetras and Cardinal Tetras. Additionally, they are compatible with Corydoras Catfish, which can help keep the bottom of the tank clean.
Plecos and Danios are also suitable tank mates for Harlequin Rasboras.
Overall, Harlequin Rasboras are a peaceful addition to any tetra tank and can coexist harmoniously with various species of fish. Their vibrant colors and active nature make them an attractive choice for aquarists looking to add some life to their aquariums.
1. Zebra Danios
Zebra Danios are great tank mates for Tetras because they are peaceful and can live in the same environment. They get along well with Cardinal Tetras specifically, enjoying each other’s company without any issues.
Zebra Danios are not aggressive and can coexist with a variety of fish species in an aquarium. When choosing tank mates for your Tetras, it is important to consider compatibility and similar environmental requirements, which Zebra Danios fulfill.
2. Swordtail
Swordtails are colorful and active freshwater fish that can be a great addition to your tetra tank. They can grow up to 4-4.5 inches long, making them larger than neon tetras. One interesting fact about swordtails is that they can be cross-bred with platies, resulting in unique color patterns.
When it comes to tank mates, swordtails get along well with other peaceful fish like platies, mollies, and angelfish. Neon tetras also make suitable companions for swordtails. So if you’re looking for an eye-catching and harmonious combination in your tank, consider adding swordtails alongside your tetra buddies!
3. Guppy
Guppies are small freshwater fish that are often kept in small community tanks. They come in different varieties and colors, making them popular among aquarium enthusiasts. Guppies have a simple care level, which makes them suitable for beginner fishkeepers.
However, it’s important to note that guppies can breed with tetras, so if you don’t want too many baby fish in your tank, it’s best to keep only male guppies or separate the males from the females.
Overall, guppies can make good tank mates for tetras as long as you manage their breeding habits properly.
4. Molly
Molly fish are compatible tank mates for neon tetras. They are similar in size and can live together peacefully. Mollies also prefer the same water conditions as neon tetras, which makes them a good match.
In addition to neon tetras, mollies can also get along well with other fish like platys and endlers. When keeping mollies in an aquarium, it is important to create a peaceful environment with the right tank mates to ensure their well-being.
With their vibrant colors, both mollies and neon tetras can add beauty to any aquarium.
5. Hatchetfish
Hatchetfish are interesting fish that are distantly related to tetras. These peaceful creatures thrive in a community setupwith other similar-sized and calm fish species. Hatchetfish are surface dwellers, meaning they spend most of their time near the water’s surface.
They have an intriguing appearance, which is why they were discovered by Linnaeus way back in 1758. If you’re looking for good tank mates for freshwater hatchetfish, consider adding dwarf gouramis, guppies, platies, or even other Tetra species to create a harmonious aquarium environment.
6. Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gouramis are small and peaceful fish that can be great tank mates for Tetras. They can also live harmoniously with other peaceful community fish like Guppies and Rasboras. Another suitable companion for Dwarf Gouramis is the Corydoras Catfish, as they are both gentle and like to stay near the bottom of the tank.
Other compatible options include Cardinal Tetras, Mollies, Chili Rasboras, Zebra Danios, Harlequin Rasboras, and Otoclinus Catfish. However, due to their small size and calm nature, it’s important to avoid pairing Dwarf Gouramis with aggressive or larger species of fish.
7. Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish are a popular choice for aquariums because they have calm temperaments and get along well with other fish. They are also hardy, which means they can tolerate different water conditions.
When it comes to tank mates for cory catfish, there are several options to consider. Hatchetfish and dwarf gourami are great choices if you want fish that stay near the top of the tank.
If you prefer middle-dwelling fish, tetra species like neon tetras or rasbora galaxy can be good companions for your corydoras catfish. You may even find that cory catfish will school together with shy fish of similar colors, such as other types of tetras in the aquarium.
8. Shrimp (Ghost or Cherry)
Ghost shrimp and cherry shrimp are great tank mates for tetras. They are small, peaceful freshwater invertebrates thatwon’t cause any trouble. These bottom-dwelling species will mostly stay out of the way of your tetras, so there won’t be much interaction between them.
The ghost shrimp looks similar to the cherry shrimp but lacks bright colors. Both shrimp can coexist in the same tankwithout any issues.
9. Black Neon Tetra
Black Neon Tetras are a type of fish that can be kept in the same tank with other fish species. They are slightly larger than regular neon tetras but still small enough to live in small schools.
Black Neon Tetras are considered true community fish, which means they can live harmoniously with other fish in the aquarium. Some suitable tank mates for Black Neon Tetras include cory catfish, dwarf gouramis, rummy nose tetras, and dwarf neon tetras.
These beautiful and colorful fish can add vibrancy to your tank.
10. Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal tetras are small and beautiful freshwater fish that are perfect for community tanks. They have vibrant colors, making them a stunning addition to any aquarium. Cardinal tetras are peaceful and easy to care for, which makes them great tank mates for other docile species in the same size range.
These tetras prefer to be in groups of six or more, so it’s important to provide them with companions. A 20-gallon tank is suitable for keeping cardinal tetras with their compatible tank mates.
Remember that cardinal tetras are smaller than other tetra species, so choose tank mates accordingly!
11. Ember Tetra
Ember tetras are small, colorful fish that make a great addition to your aquarium. They are peaceful and easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner fishkeepers. When choosing tank mates for ember tetras, it’s important to consider their size and temperament.
You want to avoid aggressive or larger fish that may bully or eat the ember tetras.
Recommended tank mates for ember tetras include harlequin rasboras, neon tetras, guppies, glowlight tetras, and cardinal tetras. These fish have similar water temperature and pH requirements, making them compatible companions in the aquarium.
Another suitable option is the white cloud mountain minnows.
Remember to provide plenty of hiding places and plants in the tank for your ember tetra and its tank mates. This will help create a natural environment while providing areas where they can retreat if needed.
12. Celestial Pearl Danio
The Celestial Pearl Danio is a peaceful freshwater fish that can live happily with other small, peaceful fish. It’s best to keep them in groups of 10 or more, with more females than males to prevent aggression.
Tank mates that are similar in size and temperament work well, but it’s important to avoid getting tank mates that are significantly larger than the Celestial Pearl Danio. Some suitable options include Neon Tetras, Guppies, Killifish, Molly Fish, and Cory Catfish.
They can all coexist peacefully and create a vibrant community aquarium.
13. Endler’s Livebearer
Endler’s livebearers are a type of fish that are best kept with other Endler’s livebearers. They do well in small groups, so it is recommended to keep at least three of them together.
These fish are hardy and easy to care for, which makes them great for beginners. One possible tank mate for Endler’s livebearers is cherry shrimp, as they can coexist peacefully in the same tank.
However, it is important to avoid keeping common guppies with Endlers, as they may interbreed and lose their distinct characteristics. Overall, Endler’s livebearers are a colorful and interesting addition to any aquarium.
14. Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus Catfish are peaceful fish that get along well with other species in the tank. They are known for their ability to eat algae, which helps control its growth and keeps the tank clean.
These catfish should be kept in groups rather than alone because they are social creatures. To thrive, they need a suitable tank size and specific water parameters, including temperature and pH levels that are appropriate for tropical freshwater fish.
15. Kuhli Loach
Kuhli Loach is a small fish with eel-like characteristics that can be a great companion for various types of fish, including guppies, tetras, and danios. It is known for its peaceful behavior and timid nature, making it an excellent addition to any community tank.
Kuhli Loach also acts as a cleaner fish by scavenging leftover food and debris from the aquarium floor. Some suitable tank mates for Kuhli Loach include fancy guppies, neon tetras, dwarf gourami, and harlequin rasboras.
With their unique appearance and easy-going temperament, Kuhli Loaches make an interesting and compatible choice for your aquarium.
16. Pygmy Corydoras
Pygmy Corydoras are small fish that can be great tank mates for neon tetras. They are often found swimming together in the wild. These corydoras have an average lifespan of up to 3 years and can grow up to 1 inch in size.
They belong to the family Callichthyidae and are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and small organisms. Pygmy Corydoras have a varied diet, which makes them easy to feed in your aquarium.
With their small size and peaceful nature, these fish can make a wonderful addition to your tetra tank community.
17. Cherry Barb
Cherry barbs are peaceful and friendly fish that make great tank mates for a community aquarium. They should not be kept with aggressive fish like Tiger Barbs, as they can become stressed or injured.
Suitable tank mates for cherry barbs include tetras, loaches, mollies, platies, and gouramis. Cherry barbs can also coexist peacefully with shrimp in the same tank. If you’re looking to add some color and tranquility to your aquarium, consider adding cherry barbs as part of your community fish setup.
18. White Cloud Mountain Minnow
White cloud mountain minnows are small and colorful fish that can be excellent tank mates for tetras. They are often compared to neon tetras in terms of their vibrant colors. If you’re looking for suitable tank mates for white cloud mountain minnows, consider black skirt tetras, glowlight tetras, bloodfin tetras, danios, neons, corydoras catfish, or red phantom tetras.
These fish are known to coexist peacefully with white cloud mountain minnows and create a visually appealing aquarium display.
19. Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos are peaceful fish that can live with other non-aggressive species in a tank. They get along well with fish that swim in the middle and top parts of the tank. Neon Tetras are good companions for Bristlenose Plecos, but they can also coexist with Guppies, mollies, Glass Catfish, Zebra Danios, Platy, and Molly.
These Plecos have a calm temperament and can happily share a tank with various types of fish.
20. Harlequin Rasboras
Harlequin Rasboras are popular fish that can make great tank mates for tetras. They are commonly found in many tanks around the world. If you have a community aquarium with tetras, adding Harlequin Rasboras can create a beautiful and lively display.
These small and peaceful fish get along well with tetras and other calm species. In addition to their striking coloration, Harlequin Rasboras are known for their active swimming behavior, making them an interesting addition to any tank.
Some suitable companions for Harlequin Rasboras include Chili Rasbora, Cory Catfish, Zebra Loach, Dwarf Gourami, Guppy, Molly, and Cherry Barb. Adding these fish to your tetra tank will create a harmonious aquatic environment for all inhabitants.
What Fish Should Not Be Kept With Tetra?
Neon tetras should not be kept with certain types of fish that may harm them or cause stress. It’s important to avoid keeping neon tetras with territorial or aggressive fish that may nip their delicate fins.
Some examples of fish to avoid are cichlids, barbs, and aggressive species of gouramis. Neon tetras should also not be kept with larger fish that might see them as food. Additionally, it is best to steer clear of fin-nipping species like tiger barbs or red-tailed sharks when choosing tank mates for your neon tetras.
Taking these precautions will help create a peaceful and safe environment for your neon tetras in the aquarium.
1. Goldfish
Goldfish should not be kept with tetras as tank mates. They have different care requirements and personalities. Neon tetras, in particular, may be at risk of being targeted by aggression or even eaten by goldfish due to their small size.
It’s important to provide suitable tank mates for goldfish that can coexist peacefully. Some better options include hillstream loach, brochis multiradiatus, dojo loach, bristlenose pleco, rubbernose pleco, white cloud mountain minnows, ricefish, and hoplo.
Keep in mind that different types of goldfish may have specific needs for their tank mates, such as oranda goldfish requiring different companions than other types of goldfish.
2. Barbs
Barbs, specifically tiger barbs, are not recommended as tank mates for tetras. Tiger barbs have a reputation for being semi-aggressive fish and can cause trouble in the aquarium. They have a tendency to bully other fish and nip at their fins and tails.
This can lead to stress and injury among the tetras and disrupt the peaceful environment of the tank. However, it is worth mentioning that cherry barbs, which are closely related to tiger barbs, can make good tank mates for tetras.
3. Aggressive Cichlids
Aggressive cichlids can be challenging to keep with other fish in a community tank. Their aggressive nature and territorial behavior can lead to stress, injury, or even death for their tank mates.
It is important to choose tank mates that are large enough to avoid conflicts and have similar temperaments. Small, less aggressive, or docile fish like Guppies, Kuhli loaches, and Angelfish are not recommended as cichlid tank mates.
Instead, consider Giant danios as they have schooling behavior that can help calm aggression in cichlids. Keeping cichlids with compatible tank mates is crucial for creating a harmonious aquarium environment.
4. Bettas
Bettas are beautiful and vibrant freshwater fish that can make great pets. When it comes to tank mates for bettas, it’s important to choose carefully. Additionally, bettas have a reputation for being territorial and aggressive towards other fish, especially those with long fins like themselves.
Remember, providing enough space and hiding spots in the tank can help reduce aggression. Conversely, there are some tetras that can be compatible tank mates for bettas. Neon tetras and ember tetras are among the best choices because they are small, peaceful fish that won’t provoke your betta.
In fact, some neon tetras can even be kept with a betta in a 5-gallon tank! However, it’s always important to monitor their behavior closely and be prepared to separate them if any aggression occurs.
5. Sharks
Sharks can be a bit tricky when it comes to finding suitable tank mates for Tetras. Rainbow Sharks, for example, work well with Congo Tetras because they are peaceful and timid. Red Tail Sharks, on the other hand, can get along with Tiger Barbs, Molly Fish, Bala Sharks, and Zebra Danios.
These tank mates help lower the aggression of the red-tailed shark and help them adjust to having others in the tank. It’s important to choose compatible fish to create a harmonious environment in your aquarium.
6. Angelfish
Angelfish are a popular choice for aquarium owners. These elegant fish can be paired with certain tank mates, making them a great addition to your community tank. When choosing tank mates for angelfish, it’s important to select peaceful species that have similar size and temperament.
This helps promote harmony within the tank and reduces the risk of aggression. Some suitable options include neon tetras, black skirt tetras (also known as black widow tetras), bristlenose plecos, Boesemani Rainbow Fish, and Corydoras Catfish.
These fish can coexist well with angelfish, creating a visually stunning and harmonious aquarium environment.
7. Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish can be great tank mates for tetras. They can coexist well with other peaceful species like angelfish, barbs, danios, characins, and gouramis. Rainbowfish prefer planted tanks with low-light conditions, so it’s best to have tank mates that thrive in similar environments.
One popular choice is the dwarf neon rainbowfish because it is bright-colored and active. If you want to mix different kinds of rainbow fish together, make sure they have similar sizes and peaceful temperaments.
So if you’re looking for colorful and friendly companions for your tetra tank, consider adding rainbowfish as one of your options!
8. Gouramis
Gouramis can be a good tank mate for tetras if you provide enough hiding places in the tank. Male gouramis can be aggressive towards other males, so they need plenty of places to escape and establish their territory.
Dwarf gouramis are community fish and can live peacefully with neon tetras in a 20-gallon tank. It is important to consider the temperament and compatibility of tank mates when choosing fish to keep with gouramis.
9. Plecos
Plecos are peaceful fish that get along well with tetras. They are sociable and rarely show aggression towards other fish, making them suitable tank mates for peaceful species like tetras.
Bristlenose Plecos, in particular, are non-aggressive and are often recommended as companions for Bleeding Heart Tetras. Neon tetras also make good tank mates for plecos because they have similar preferences when it comes to water conditions.
So if you want to keep plecos with your tetras, go ahead! These two species can happily coexist in the same aquarium without any major conflicts or issues arising between them.
10. African Dwarf Frogs
African Dwarf Frogs are commonly kept as tank mates with tetra fish. They can coexist peacefully in the same aquarium without any issues. African Dwarf Frogs are not known for eating fish, so tetra fish have nothing to fear from them.
If you have African Dwarf Frogs in your tank, you can also consider adding Cardinal Tetras as their tank mates. Another suitable option for African Dwarf Frogs is Otocinclus, which is a type of catfish that helps keep the tank clean by feeding on algae.
Guppies are another fish species that can peacefully cohabitate with both tetras and African Dwarf Frogs.
How to Introduce New Fish to a Tetra Tank?
Looking for the perfect companions for your tetra fish? You’ve come to the right place! Did you know that neon tetras can have tank mates that make their habitat even more exciting? In this blog, we’ll explore the best options for tetra tank mates and how they can create a harmonious underwater community. Get ready to dive into a world of colorful fish and discover the ideal buddies for your tetras!
Feeding Tetra: Dietary Requirements and Impact on Tank Mates
Tetras have specific dietary requirements that need to be met for their health and well-being. These fish are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plant and animal-based foods. In captivity, it is recommended to provide tetras with a balanced diet consisting of frozen or varied foods.
Neon tetras, for example, should be offered a diet that includes fish flakes, micro pellets, and live foods.
When choosing tank mates for your tetra aquarium, it’s important to consider the impact on feeding habits. Tetras can be quite active feeders and may outcompete other fish for food.
Therefore, it’s best to avoid keeping slow-moving species or those that have similar dietary preferences in the same tank as tetras.
Overall, providing a diverse diet and considering the feeding habits of your tetra tank mates will help ensure all the fish in your aquarium receive the nutrition they need to thrive.
Tetra Behavior With Different Tank Mates: What to Expect?
Tetras are generally peaceful fish that can coexist with a variety of tank mates. However, their behavior may vary depending on the species they are paired with. When kept with compatible tank mates, tetras tend to exhibit schooling behavior, swimming together in synchronized movements.
This creates a visually stunning display in the aquarium.
It is important to note that tetras prefer to be in groups of their own species. They feel more secure and confident when surrounded by their own kind. In larger groups, they tend to display more vibrant colors and become even more active.
When introduced to other small and peaceful fish like rasboras, danios, guppies, mollies, or catfish such as corydoras or otocinclus catfish, tetras usually get along well. They often swim harmoniously within the community aquarium without any major issues.
However, it’s crucial to avoid pairing tetras with aggressive or fin-nipping species such as betta fish or barbs. This can lead to stress for both the tetra and its tank mate. Similarly, large predatory fish like angelfish or sharks should also be avoided due to their tendency to view smaller fish as food.
Conclusion
Neon tetras are peaceful and social fish that can thrive when kept with compatible tank mates. It is important to choose companions that are of a similar size and temperament to ensure a harmonious environment.
With proper research and consideration, you can create a beautiful and diverse community aquarium with neon tetras as the centerpiece. Happy fish-keeping!
FAQ
Can Tetra Live Alone?
Tetras cannot live alone. They are schooling fish, which means they need the company of other tetras to feel safe and happy. Keeping a tetra alone can cause feelings of loneliness, depression, and stress for the fish.
It is important to have multiple tetras in a tank so they can form a school and swim together. So, if you’re considering getting a tetra as a pet, make sure you provide them with companionship by keeping them in a group with other tetras.
How Many Tetra Can You Keep Together?
Neon Tetras are social fish and thrive in groups. It is recommended to keep a minimum of six Neon Tetras together, but ideally, you should have at least 15 in a tank. Keeping them in larger numbers helps to create a natural school environment and reduces stress levels.
Remember to provide enough space and hiding spots for each tetra to ensure their well-being. So, if you’re planning on keeping Neon Tetras, make sure you have a good number of them in your tank for a happy and healthy community.
What to Do if Your Tetra Is Aggressive?
If your Tetra is being aggressive towards other tank mates, there are a few things you can do to address the issue. First, check the water conditions in your aquarium to ensure they are optimal for the fish.
Poor water quality can contribute to stress and aggression in Tetras. Additionally, make sure you are providing a balanced diet for your Tetras as inadequate nutrition can also lead to aggressive behavior.
If you notice that one particular Tetra is consistently aggressive towards others, it may be necessary to separate it from the rest of the tank mates. This will help prevent further aggression and protect the other fish in the aquarium.
Creating hiding spots or adding more plants and decorations can also help reduce aggression by providing territories for each fish.
What Are Some Tank Mates for Tetras That Prefer a Planted Aquarium
Tetras that prefer a planted aquarium can have several suitable tank mates. Some good options include the harlequin rasbora, otocinclus catfish, dwarf gourami, cherry barb, and white cloud mountain minnow.
These fish are peaceful and do well in a community setup with tetras. They also thrive in environments with live plants, providing a natural and harmonious habitat for all the fish.
By adding these compatible tank mates to your planted aquarium, you can create a vibrant and balanced ecosystem for your tetras to enjoy.
Are There Any Species of Cichlids That Can Be Kept With Tetras
Some species of cichlids can be kept with tetras, but it’s important to choose the right ones. African cichlids, like those from Lake Malawi or Lake Tanganyika, are generally not suitable tank mates for tetras because they grow large and may eat the smaller tetras.
However, there are some compatible options. Giant Danios have a similar temperament to cichlids and can make good tank mates. Clown or Tiger loaches, Flying fox fish, zebra or botia striatus loaches, siamese fox fish, and red-eyed tetras are also known to coexist well with cichlids.
It’s crucial to consider water parameters and the temperaments of both species when choosing appropriate tank mates for your tetras and cichlids.
What types of fish can live well with rummy-nose tetra?
Rummy-nose tetra are hardy fish that do well with other tropical fish like the black molly in an aquarium.
How easy is it to care for a Tetra and its tank mates?
Tetras and their tank mates such as black mollies are easy-care fish, making them great for any aquarium owner.
What kind of hardness and filtration should a Tetra’s tank have?
A tetra’s tank needs good filtration and a certain level of hardness to keep the fish healthy.
Can the diseases that affect my Rummy-nose Tetras infect their tank mates too?
Yes, diseases can spread from one aquarium fish to another if they share the same water space so regular maintenance is important.