Neon tetras are one of the most popular freshwater fish in home aquariums, primarily due to their beauty and peaceful nature.
But what other fish can live with them in the same tank? How do you choose the right ones, and which species should you avoid?
In this article, I will address all of these questions and provide detailed answers. Let’s dive right in.
Also Read: Neon Tetra Care Guide
How To Choose Tank Mates For Neon Tetras
When picking the ideal tank mates for neon tetras, there are three main factors to take in mind:
- Water requirements
- Behavioral traits
- The fish’s size
This is what you should know:
1. Understanding Water Conditions
- Native Habitat: Neon tetras thrive in warm, acidic waters of South America. Ideal tank mates should prefer similar conditions, with pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and temperature 70°F to 81°F.
- Stability: Neon tetras need a stable environment. Choose tank mates that don’t require frequent water changes or rapid shifts in parameters.
- Water Flow: Neon tetras favor slow-moving waters. Choose tank mates accustomed to similar water flow conditions.
- Cleanliness: Neon tetras are sensitive to water quality. Avoid tank mates known for significant waste production, such as goldfish.
2. Behavioral Traits
- Peacefulness: Neon tetras are peaceful, schooling fish. Ideal tank mates should also be non-aggressive species to prevent stress or harm.
- Social Interaction: Select tank mates that will respect the tetras’ schooling behavior, not disrupting their tight-knit groups.
- Activity Level: Neon tetras are moderately active, avoid highly active or predatory fish that could stress or threaten them.
- Territory: Ensure chosen tank mates aren’t territorial, as this could lead to competition for space and resources.
3. Size Matters
- Avoid Predatory Species: Avoid larger, predatory fish that may view neon tetras as food due to their small size.
- Similar Size: Opt for tank mates of similar size to ensure a balance in the competition for food and space.
- Swimming Levels: Choose fish that occupy different water levels in the tank to avoid crowding and promote harmony.
- Mouth Size: Avoid fish with a mouth size large enough to swallow neon tetras. This is a practical measure to prevent potential predation.
Also Read: How To Feed Neon Tetras
Best 19 Tank Mates For Neon Tetras
Considering these factors, let’s see which are the best species to keep with neon tetras:
1. Kuhli Loach
- Scientific Name: Pangio kuhlii
- Temperature: 75-86°F (24-30°C)
- pH: 5.5-6.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Adult Size: 4 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Compatibility: 8/10
- Comments: They’re nocturnal, peaceful, and are unlikely to disturb neon tetras. However, they may not interact much with the tetras due to their different active periods.
Kuhli loaches are peaceful, nocturnal fish native to Southeast Asia, growing up to 4 inches and preferring similar water conditions as neon tetras.
Their non-aggressive behavior and night-time activity make them non-threatening, allowing cohabitation with neon tetras.
The different activity patterns and shared water preferences contribute to a stress-free environment for both species.
2. Ember Tetra
- Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae
- Temperature: 73-84°F (23-29°C)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: 1 inch
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 9/10
- Comments: They share similar water requirements and are peaceful. They coexist well with neon tetras due to their calm demeanor.
Ember tetras are small, peaceful freshwater fish native to Brazil, growing only up to 0.8 inches.
They thrive in similar warm and slightly acidic water conditions as neon tetras.
Their non-aggressive nature, small size, and shared environmental preferences make them excellent tank mates for neon tetras.
3. Corydoras Catfish
- Scientific Name: Corydoras spp.
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH: 6.0-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Adult Size: 1-3 inches (depends on species)
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 9/10
- Comments: They are very peaceful and coexist harmoniously with neon tetras. They also have a similar requirement for water conditions.
Encased in a distinctive armor-like body, Corydoras catfish are native to South America and inhabit the lower levels of the tank.
They share the neon tetras’ peaceful demeanor and require similar water conditions, enabling a smooth and harmonious coexistence in the same aquatic environment.
Also Read: Cory Catfish And Neon Tetras
4. Platy Fish
- Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus
- Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
- pH: 7.0-8.3
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches
- Recommended School Size: 5 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 8/10
- Comments: They are slightly larger than neon tetras but share similar water condition requirements. They’re also low maintenance, which makes them an excellent choice for beginners.
Originally from Central America, Platies boast a beautiful variety of colors.
Renowned for their adaptable nature and tranquility, they easily adjust to different water conditions and peacefully cohabitate with neon tetras, bringing vibrancy to the shared living space.
5. Harlequin Rasbora
- Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
- Temperature: 72-81°F (22-27°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: 2 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comments: They coexist well with neon tetras but may eat the tetra offspring if you plan on breeding.
Hailing from the warm waters of Southeast Asia, Harlequin Rasboras are social, schooling fish.
They thrive in the same slightly acidic to neutral pH environments as neon tetras and their calm temperament makes them an excellent addition to a neon tetra tank.
6. Guppy Fish
- Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
- Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- pH: 7.0-8.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: 2 inches
- Recommended School Size: No specific requirement but they do well in groups
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 8/10
- Comments: They are small, vibrant, and low maintenance. However, the offspring may not survive if kept with adult fish in the tank.
Guppies are a splash of color originating from South America.
These active yet peaceful swimmers have a high degree of environmental adaptability that aligns with neon tetras’ water preferences.
Their fascinating color patterns and peaceful behavior supplement the tranquil lifestyle of neon tetras well.
Also Read: Can Neon Tetras And Guppies Live Together?
7. Otocinclus Catfish
- Scientific Name: Otocinclus spp.
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: 2 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Compatibility: 9/10
- Comments: They are peaceful, only eat algae, and pose no threat to neon tetras’ offspring. Their size and temperaments are well-suited for a community tank with neon tetras.
Small, peaceful catfish known as Otocinclus are appreciated for their beneficial algae-eating habits.
They share similar water requirements as neon tetras and their non-aggressive, industrious nature aids in maintaining a clean tank environment, which makes for a beneficial and harmonious relationship.
8. Female Betta Fish
- Scientific Name: Betta splendens
- Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Adult Size: 2.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: Usually solitary, can coexist with other fish in larger tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 6/10
- Comments: While female Bettas are less aggressive than males, their compatibility varies due to individual personalities. Some may coexist with neon tetras peacefully, while others may show aggression.
Unlike their flamboyantly aggressive male counterparts, female Betta fish exhibit a mild-mannered, peaceful demeanor.
They are tolerant of a range of water conditions and can comfortably coexist with neon tetras, contributing to a dynamic, yet peaceful shared habitat.
9. Endler’s Livebearer
- Scientific Name: Poecilia wingei
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH: 7.0-8.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Adult Size: 1.8 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 8/10
- Comments: They are small, active, and coexist peacefully with neon tetras. They are also easy to care for and non-aggressive.
These small, brightly colored fish bear a close relation to guppies.
With their non-aggressive behavior, matching water needs, and compact size, Endler’s Livebearers can integrate well into the social dynamics of a neon tetra school, enhancing the visual appeal of the tank.
10. Swordtail Fish
- Scientific Name: Xiphophorus hellerii
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 7.0-8.4
- Minimum Tank Size: 29 gallons
- Adult Size: 5-6 inches
- Recommended School Size: 5 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comments: They usually coexist well with neon tetras, but male swordtails can occasionally display aggression.
Larger than most suitable neon tetra tank mates, Swordtails hail from North and Central America.
They adapt well to various water conditions, matching the environmental tolerance of neon tetras, making them suitable companions in a sufficiently sized, diverse tank community.
11. Zebra Danio
- Scientific Name: Danio rerio
- Temperature: 65-77°F (18-25°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.2
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: 2 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 8/10
- Comments: Zebra Danios are peaceful fish that share similar care requirements as neon tetras. However, they are active swimmers and might stress more timid fish.
Zebra Danios, originating from South Asia, are adorned with distinctive horizontal stripes.
Known for their active and peaceful nature, these surface dwellers can adapt to a range of water conditions and happily cohabit with neon tetras, adding an exciting dash of movement at the upper levels of the tank.
Also Read: Zebra Danios And Neon Tetras
12. Molly Fish
- Scientific Name: Poecilia spp.
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH: 7.5-8.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches
- Recommended School Size: No specific requirement but they do well in groups
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 6/10
- Comments: While they can coexist, mollies grow significantly larger than neon tetras and may display aggression towards smaller fish.
Mollies, native to the Americas, come in various colors and patterns.
Their easy-going demeanor, adaptability to diverse water conditions, and preference for similar diets make them compatible and harmonious companions for neon tetras, enriching the overall community tank environment.
Also Read: Mollies And Neon Tetras
13. Cherry Shrimp
- Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi
- Temperature: 65-85°F (18-29°C)
- pH: 6.5-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Adult Size: 1.6 inches
- Recommended School Size: 10 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comments: They make interesting tank mates and will not prey on the tetras. However, some neon tetras may prey on small shrimp.
Cherry Shrimp are vibrant invertebrates that add a unique touch to any aquarium.
Their small size, peaceful nature, and shared water parameter requirements with neon tetras make them an exciting, non-threatening addition to a neon tetra setup.
Also Read: Tetra Fish And Shrimp
14. Bristlenose Pleco
- Scientific Name: Ancistrus spp.
- Temperature: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
- Adult Size: 5 inches
- Recommended School Size: Solitary, but can coexist with other species
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 9/10
- Comments: They are peaceful, consume algae, and are suitable for beginners. They pose no threat to neon tetras or their offspring.
Known for their algae-eating tendencies and unusual appearance, Bristlenose Plecos from South America inhabit the bottom of the tank.
Given their peaceful nature and similarity in water preferences, they coexist well with neon tetras, aiding in tank cleanliness and adding to the diversity of the aquatic life.
15. Hatchetfish
- Scientific Name: Gasteropelecidae
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons
- Adult Size: 2.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comments: They prefer to stay near the top of the tank, so they don’t interfere with the tetras. They are peaceful but prefer to be in larger groups.
Hatchetfish, named for their distinct body shape, are surface dwellers from South America.
With their peaceful temperament and shared water requirements with neon tetras, they are an interesting addition to the tank, occupying the upper levels and leaving the mid-level to the neons.
16. Dwarf Gourami
- Scientific Name: Trichogaster lalius
- Temperature: 77-82°F (25-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: 3.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: Solitary or pairs, but females can coexist in groups
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comments: They can coexist with neon tetras but may be shy and require hiding places. Also, male Dwarf Gouramis can become territorial with each other.
Dwarf Gouramis, known for their splendid coloration and tranquil disposition, originate from South Asia.
They thrive in similar water conditions as neon tetras and their non-aggressive, slow-moving nature aligns well with the peaceful lifestyle of neon tetras.
Also Read: Can Neon Tetras And Gourami Fish Live Together?
17. Galaxy Rasbora
- Scientific Name: Danio margaritatus
- Temperature: 73-79°F (23-26°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: 1 inch
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Compatibility: 9/10
- Comments: They are small, peaceful, and coexist well with neon tetras. Their care requirements also align well with those of neon tetras.
These tiny, star-spangled fish, also known as Celestial Pearl Danios, hail from Southeast Asia.
Their peaceful demeanor, small size, and compatibility with the warm, slightly acidic water preferred by neon tetras, make them an enchanting and harmonious addition to a neon tetra tank.
18. Bolivian Ram
- Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus altispinosus
- Temperature: 73-82°F (23-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
- Adult Size: 3.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: Usually solitary or pairs
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comments: They are beautiful and hardy but can be territorial, which may stress neon tetras.
Bolivian Rams, hailing from South America, are peaceful cichlids.
Their adaptability to diverse water conditions, peaceful demeanor, and preference for the lower levels of the tank allow them to peacefully cohabit with neon tetras.
19. Siamese Algae Eaters
- Scientific Name: Crossocheilus oblongus
- Temperature: 74-79°F (23-26°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
- Adult Size: 6 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 9/10
- Comments: They are peaceful, efficient algae eaters, and coexist well with neon tetras. They add both functionality and diversity to the tank.
These industrious fish are native to Southeast Asia and renowned for their algae-eating habits.
Their peaceful nature, shared water preferences with neon tetras, and their beneficial role in algae control contribute to a balanced and harmonious tank environment with neon tetras.
Also Read: How To Breed Neon Tetras
Fish Species To Avoid In A Neon Tetra Aquarium
If you have a neon tetra tank and are looking for companions, there are a few fish you should not consider:
1. Angelfish
Originating from the Amazon Basin, Angelfish are known for their spectacular shape and size. However, they are opportunistic eaters and may view small neon tetras as prey.
Also Read: Do Angelfish Eat Tetras?
In addition, their preference for a higher pH could lead to incompatible water conditions.
However, bear in mind that while it is not recommended, under some circumstances these two species can live together in the same tank.
That mainly depends on the tank size and on water chemistry and temperature monitoring.
Also Read: Can Neon Tetras And Angelfish Live Together?
2. Male Betta Fish
Male Bettas, known for their vibrant colors and long, flowing fins, are renowned for their aggressive behavior, particularly towards other brightly colored or similarly shaped fish.
Their territorial nature could lead to stress and harm for the peaceful neon tetras, disrupting the tranquility of the tank environment.
Also Read: Can Neon Tetras And Betta Fish Live Together?
3. Oscar Fish
Oscars, large cichlids hailing from South America, are known for their voracious appetite and aggressive nature.
Given their size, they can easily consume small neon tetras. Additionally, Oscars require a larger tank than neon tetras, making the two species incompatible for cohabitation.
4. Tiger Barb
Tiger Barbs, native to Southeast Asia, have a reputation for fin-nipping, especially against slower, smaller fish.
Given the neon tetra’s small size and peaceful nature, Tiger Barbs’ aggressive tendencies can cause significant stress and injury to neon tetras.
5. Discus
Although Discus fish share the neon tetras’ South American origin and enjoy similar water conditions, their much larger size and need for higher temperatures make them unsuitable companions.
Moreover, they require a more specific diet and prefer a quiet, slow-paced environment, which could be disrupted by the active swimming of neon tetras.
Also Read: Will Discus Fish Eat Neon Tetras?
6. Goldfish
Neon tetras and goldfish are incompatible as tank mates primarily due to their different temperature requirements: goldfish thrive in cooler temperatures while neon tetras prefer warmer water.
Additionally, goldfish, being larger and messier, can stress out or even prey on the smaller neon tetras.
Also Read: Can Neon Tetras And Goldfish Live Together?
Conclusions
Here is a quick summary of what I discussed earlier:
- Neon tetras are highly sought after for their stunning appearance and peaceful temperament, making them a favorite choice for freshwater aquariums.
- When considering tankmates for neon tetras, it’s crucial to choose species that share similar water parameters and temperaments.
- Community fish like guppies, corydoras, and dwarf gouramis are generally compatible with neon tetras and can create a vibrant and harmonious tank.
- However, aggressive or larger species should be avoided as they may harm or intimidate neon tetras.
- Proper research and understanding of the compatibility and requirements of different fish species are key to successfully selecting suitable tankmates for neon tetras.