20 Black Neon Tetra Tank Mates
This informative guide provides details on compatible tank mates for the black neon tetra, a popular and peaceful freshwater fish. This article discusses the characteristics, requirements, and behavior of these compatible species, ensuring a healthy and harmonious community aquarium.
Cory Catfish
Cory Catfish, also known as Corydoras, are a popular choice for community tanks due to their peaceful nature and unique appearance. They are bottom-dwelling scavengers and are known for their ability to clean the aquarium substrate. One important aspect to consider is that they prefer to live in groups of at least 5-6 individuals, so make sure you have enough space for them.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: minimum 20 gallons (76 liters) for a group
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; sinking pellets, frozen/live foods, and occasional vegetables
- Adult Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) depending on the species
Remember to provide hiding spots like caves, driftwood, or plants, which Cory Catfish enjoy exploring, as they are natural hide-seekers in their environment.
Harlequin Rasbora
Harlequin Rasboras, with their striking orange and black coloration, make wonderful tank mates for black neon tetras. They are peaceful schooling fish that are native to Southeast Asia and thrive in well-planted aquariums with calm water movement.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, as well as live and frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
To maintain a healthy environment, always keep Harlequin Rasboras in groups of 6 or more individuals. They can be sensitive to water parameters, so make sure to maintain stable and clean water conditions. Additionally, providing a densely planted environment will help them feel safe and at ease.
Zebra Danio
Zebra Danios, also known as Zebrafish, are a lively addition to any community tank. With their playful behavior and eye-catching striped pattern, they are an excellent choice for tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, but active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; quality flake or pellet food, complemented with live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm)
Zebra Danios prefer being in groups of at least 6 individuals. Their playful behavior might sometimes stress more timid species, so it’s important to provide ample swimming space and hiding spots for other tank inhabitants. Also, ensure proper filtration and a well-maintained tank, as they thrive best in clean and stable water.
Twig Catfish
Twig Catfish, also known as Whiptail Catfish or Farlowella, are unique and peaceful fish that can be excellent tank mates for black neon tetras. With their elongated twig-like bodies, they make an interesting addition to any community tank.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 20 gallons (76 liters) for a single individual
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Herbivorous; algae and biofilm, supplemented with algae wafers or vegetable pellets
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Owing to their nature as shy and sensitive fish, Twig Catfish require a calm and well-planted environment, with hiding places like plants, caves, and driftwood. Pay careful attention to water quality, as they can be sensitive to fluctuations in water parameters. Having a stable and mature aquarium setup is essential to maintain the health and well-being of Twig Catfish.
Honey Gourami
Honey Gouramis are beautiful and peaceful fish known for their vibrant, honey-like coloration. They make attractive and harmonious tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a single individual
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, complemented with live and frozen foods, as well as vegetables
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
Honey Gouramis prefer a calm and well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots, which helps them feel secure. A key aspect to keep in mind is that, like other Anabantoids, they require access to the water’s surface for breathing through their labyrinth organ. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or overly boisterous fish, as this can stress them and lead to health issues.
Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal Tetras, known for their vibrant red and blue coloration, are peaceful schooling fish that make excellent tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
Cardinal Tetras thrive in well-planted aquariums with soft water and a slightly acidic pH. They should be kept in groups of at least 6-8 fish, as they feel more secure in numbers. Ensure that the water parameters remain stable, as sudden fluctuations can stress them and impact their health. Providing a peaceful environment free from aggressive tank mates promotes their well-being and vibrant colors.
Apistogramma Cichlids
Apistogramma Cichlids, also known as Dwarf Cichlids, are small and colorful fish that can make great tank mates for black neon tetras due to their relatively peaceful nature.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 20 gallons (76 liters) for a single pair
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Generally peaceful, but territorial during breeding
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous; high-quality pellet or flake food, along with live or frozen foods for a varied diet
- Adult Size: 2-3.5 inches (5-9 cm) depending on the species
Apistogramma Cichlids enjoy well-planted tanks with a soft substrate, plenty of hiding spots, and smooth rocks or caves for breeding. Keep in mind that while they are generally peaceful, they can become territorial during breeding, so providing enough space and hiding places is crucial for a harmonious community tank. Monitor their interactions with other species and ensure all tank inhabitants are comfortable.
Kuhli Loaches
Kuhli Loaches, often referred to as eel-like fish with their elongated bodies and distinct pattern, are fascinating nocturnal creatures that make excellent tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: minimum 20 gallons (76 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; high-quality sinking pellets, occasional live or frozen foods, and plant matter
- Adult Size: 3-5 inches (8-12 cm)
Owing to their social nature, Kuhli Loaches should be kept in groups of at least five individuals. Ensure your aquarium has a soft substrate like sand for them to burrow and plenty of hiding spots like plants, caves, or pieces of driftwood. Since they are nocturnal, providing a dimly lit environment during daylight hours will encourage them to be more active and visible during that time.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gouramis are beautifully colored and peaceful fish that can make excellent tank mates for black neon tetras, provided they have plenty of swimming space and hiding spots.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a single individual
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, along with live, frozen, and plant-based foods
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Dwarf Gouramis, like other gourami species, have a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air, so ensure they have access to the water’s surface. They prefer well-planted aquariums with calm water conditions and may show stress and lose their vibrant colors if kept with aggressive or overly active tank mates. Create an environment that ensures their comfort and showcases their stunning beauty.
Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus Catfish, also referred to as “Otos” or “Dwarf Suckermouths,” are small and peaceful algae-eating fish that are great tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Herbivorous; primarily algae, but should be supplemented with algae wafers and the occasional blanched vegetable
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
Though they can be sensitive to water quality and parameters, Otocinclus Catfish play an essential role in helping control algae in your aquarium. They enjoy being in groups of at least 6 individuals. Provide plenty of hiding places, like plants or driftwood, to create a comfortable environment. Remember to maintain a stable and well-cycled aquarium for their health and happiness.
Bristlenose Plecos
Bristlenose Plecos, known for their unique appearance with whisker-like appendages on their noses, are hardy and peaceful fish that can be great tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 30 gallons (114 liters) for a single individual
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; algae and biofilm, supplemented with algae wafers, sinking pellets, and occasional fresh vegetables
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
These gentle bottom-dwellers help keep the tank clean by grazing on algae and are relatively non-aggressive. Provide a spacious tank, cave-like hiding spots or smooth driftwood, as Bristlenose Plecos like to have their own territory. Also, bear in mind that they may produce more waste than smaller fish, so ensure a proper filtration system and regular water changes for optimal water quality.
Cherry Barbs
Cherry Barbs, recognized by their vibrant red coloration, are small and peaceful schooling fish that can be perfect tank mates alongside black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
Cherry Barbs are best kept in groups of 6 or more, as they feel more secure when in a school. A well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spaces is ideal for maintaining their health and well-being. Care should be taken to ensure stable water conditions and a peaceful environment, as Cherry Barbs are sensitive to water parameter fluctuations and can become stressed when housed with aggressive tank mates.
Mollies
Mollies, a live-bearing fish species, are known for their adaptability and peaceful demeanor, which makes them compatible tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 20 gallons (76 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, live or frozen foods, and plant matter
- Adult Size: 3-4.5 inches (7.5-11 cm) depending on the species
Mollies prefer a well-decorated tank with hiding spaces like plants, rocks, and driftwood. They can adapt to either fresh or brackish water, but it’s essential to maintain stable water parameters. Additionally, they are prolific breeders, so be prepared to manage their population growth. Providing floating plants or breeding areas can offer some degree of protection for the fry.
Swordtails
Swordtails, recognized by their distinctive sword-like tail fins, are active and peaceful fish that make good tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 20 gallons (76 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, but active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, live or frozen foods, and plant matter
- Adult Size: 4-5 inches (10-12.5 cm) not including the sword
These livebearers prefer a well-planted tank with ample swimming space and hiding spots. While they can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, maintaining stable water parameters is important for their well-being. Be aware that Swordtails breed easily in captivity, so it’s essential to take care of their population and provide hiding spaces for the fry to increase their survival rate.
Celestial Pearl Danio
Celestial Pearl Danios, also known as Galaxy Rasboras, are a stunning and peaceful fish species that can make ideal tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; quality flake or pellet food, live or frozen foods for a balanced diet
- Adult Size: 0.8-1 inch (2-2.5 cm)
Celestial Pearl Danios thrive in densely planted aquariums with ample hiding spots and calm water conditions. As they are a schooling fish, it’s crucial to keep them in groups of 6 or more. Maintaining stable water parameters is essential for their well-being since they are sensitive to changes in water quality. Keep them away from aggressive or overly active tank mates to ensure a harmonious environment.
African Dwarf Frogs
African Dwarf Frogs, although not fish, add a unique dynamic to community tanks and can be peaceful companions for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a single frog or pair
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous; sinking frog pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
These fully aquatic frogs prefer a calm and well-maintained tank with a non-sharp substrate and plenty of hiding spots. Ensure they have access to the water’s surface as they need to breathe air. Avoid keeping African Dwarf Frogs with large or aggressive species that may pose a threat. Pay close attention during feeding time to ensure they get their fair share of food, as they have poor eyesight and eat relatively slowly.
Clown Plecos
Clown Plecos, known for their distinctive pattern and compact size, are peaceful bottom-dwelling fish that make a great addition to a black neon tetra community tank.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 20 gallons (76 liters) for a single individual
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; algae, biofilm, sinking pellets, occasional vegetables, and wood for grazing
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
These small plecos require driftwood in their tank setup, as they naturally graze on decaying wood in the wild. In addition to wood, provide a variety of hiding spots like plants, rocks, and caves to make them feel secure. Ensure proper filtration and regular water changes, as Clown Plecos, like other plecos, produce a fair amount of waste. Their compact size, colorful pattern, and peaceful temperament make them a lovely addition to any community tank.
Hatchetfish
Hatchetfish, with their unique, hatchet-shaped bodies, are peaceful and intriguing surface-dwelling fish that can coexist harmoniously with black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous; floating flake or pellet food, small live or frozen foods like brine shrimp
- Adult Size: 1-2.5 inches (2.5-6.5 cm) depending on the species
Hatchetfish prefer a well-planted aquarium with a tight-fitting lid, as they are strong jumpers. Keep them in groups of 6 or more to help them feel secure. Regular water changes and stable water parameters are essential, as they are sensitive to water quality. Providing a calm, stress-free environment with appropriate tank mates is vital for their well-being.
White Cloud Minnow
White Cloud Minnows are a resilient and peaceful fish species that can make excellent tank mates for black neon tetras in community aquariums.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
These hardy fish prefer cooler water temperatures and adapt well to various water conditions. White Cloud Minnows are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals. A well-planted tank with hiding spots and a gentle water flow will help create a comfortable environment for them. Providing a calm and peaceful community tank ensures the well-being of White Cloud Minnows.
Glass Catfish
Glass Catfish, known for their unique, transparent bodies, are peaceful fish that can make interesting tank mates for black neon tetras.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: minimum 20 gallons (76 liters) for a small group
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
As schooling fish, Glass Catfish should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals for a sense of security. They prefer a well-planted aquarium with hiding spots and subdued lighting. Glass Catfish can be sensitive to water conditions, so maintaining stable water parameters and performing regular water changes are essential for their well-being. Avoid housing them with aggressive fish, as this could stress them and harm their health.
Conclusion
Selecting suitable tank mates for your black neon tetras is essential to maintain a thriving, peaceful community aquarium. With careful consideration, you can achieve a harmonious setup for your aquatic friends. Have experience with any of these tank mates? Share your thoughts in the comments below!