20 Bumblebee Goby Tank Mates
Choosing the perfect tank mates for Bumblebee Goby is not an easy task as these fish are peaceful, tiny, and shy. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 20 suitable tank mates that can coexist peacefully with your bumblebee gobies, creating a diverse and thriving aquatic environment.
Neon Tetra
Neon Tetras are one of the most popular aquarium fish, known for their vibrant colors and peaceful nature. These small, schooling fish originate from South America and are perfect additions to a community tank with their lively swimming patterns and active behavior. Additionally, they are relatively hardy, which makes them a suitable choice for both novice and experienced aquarists.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters) and above
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, flakes or pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
Neon Tetras make excellent tank mates for a Bumblebee Goby as they share the same peaceful temperament and water parameter requirements. Just ensure that you maintain proper water quality and provide plenty of hiding spots for both species to comfortably cohabitate.
Guppy Fish
Guppy Fish are colorful, small, and easy to care for, making them a popular choice for Bumblebee Goby tank mates. They come in various colors and patterns, brightening up your aquarium with their lively presence. Guppies are social fish that prefer to live in groups, so having a few of them will keep your Bumblebee Goby company.
Here are some quick facts about Guppy Fish:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 5-10 gal (19-38 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, accepts a variety of food such as flakes, pellets, and live or freeze-dried foods
- Adult Size: 0.6-2.4 inches (1.5-6 cm)
With Guppy Fish in your tank, you can expect a harmonious and vibrant environment for your Bumblebee Goby to thrive in. Just keep an eye on the water conditions, as Guppies prefer clean water to live healthily.
Platies
Platies are a popular and colorful choice for your Bumblebee Goby tank mates. These small, vibrant fish are known for their hardy nature and easy-going temperament, making them an ideal addition to your tank. These livebearers get along well with other peaceful fish and can coexist harmoniously with your Bumblebee Goby.
Here are some key details to know about Platies:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivores, will eat flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-2.5 inches (4-6 cm)
By providing a comfortable environment and keeping their dietary needs met, Platies will thrive in your tank alongside Bumblebee Gobies. Their colorful presence will be an exciting visual addition to your aquatic setup.
Mollies
Mollies are vibrant, versatile, and easy-to-care-for fish that can make a great addition to your Bumblebee Goby tank. They come in various colors and can live in either freshwater or brackish water environments, thus making them suitable for a variety of tank setups.
Here are some key points to consider when adding Mollies to your aquarium:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; provide a mix of high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
These social fish enjoy being part of a group, so consider keeping them in a small school to ensure their happiness. With their easy-going nature and minimal requirements, Mollies make great tank mates for the Bumblebee Goby.
Swordtails
Swordtails are a beautiful and popular fish species that can make excellent tank mates for Bumblebee Gobies. These active and playful fish come in various colors, such as red, orange, and green, with their distinctive, elongated tail fins resembling a sword.
When considering Swordtails as tank mates for your Bumblebee Goby, bear in mind the following factors:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 15 gal (56 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, accept a wide variety of foods (flakes, pellets, frozen, live)
- Adult Size: 4-4.5 inches (10-11 cm)
Though Swordtails are larger than Bumblebee Gobies, their peaceful nature makes them ideal companions, provided that the tank is spacious enough to accommodate both species comfortably.
Cherry Barb
Cherry Barbs are small, colorful fish that make excellent tank mates for the Bumblebee Goby. They are known for their bright red and orange coloration, which becomes more vibrant during the breeding season.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; will eat flakes, pellets, and a variety of live and frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Cherry Barbs prefer planted tanks with sufficient hiding spots, as they can be somewhat shy. They generally do well in community tanks with a variety of other peaceful species, making them a great choice for Bumblebee Goby tank mates. Be sure to maintain proper water conditions and avoid over-feeding to ensure a healthy environment for these colorful fish.
Harlequin Rasbora
Harlequin Rasboras are small, colorful fish that make excellent tank mates for Bumblebee Gobies. Their peaceful and calm temperament makes them compatible with other peaceful species, creating a harmonious community tank.
Here are some basic requirements and characteristics of Harlequin Rasboras:
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) or larger
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and calm
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; enjoy flake food, freeze-dried food, and small live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm)
It is essential to provide the Harlequin Rasboras with plenty of hiding spaces using plants and décor, and maintaining water parameters within their ideal range. They enjoy swimming in schools, so it’s best to keep at least six of them together for a healthy and active environment.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras Catfish, also known as Cory Cats, are a popular tank mate for Bumblebee Gobies due to their peaceful nature and easy-going temperament. These bottom-dwelling fish love to scavenge and will help keep your tank clean from uneaten food. They are small, schooling fish that thrive in a community tank with other non-aggressive fish species.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, sinking pellets and frozen or live foods
- Adult Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm)
When adding Corydoras Catfish to your Bumblebee Goby tank, ensure there are plenty of hiding spots and a soft substrate for them to navigate. With their easy care requirements and friendly nature, Cory Cats make a great tank mate for your Bumblebee Goby community.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gourami is a small, colorful fish that is great at adding a splash of vibrancy to your Bumblebee Goby’s tank. Known for their striking appearance and peaceful behavior, they make wonderful tank mates for most community aquariums.
Here’s a brief overview of what you need to know about Dwarf Gourami:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 – 20 gal (38 – 76 L)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods
- Adult Size: 2 – 3.5 inches (5 – 9 cm)
With proper care and attention, your Dwarf Gourami will thrive alongside your Bumblebee Goby, creating a harmonious and visually stunning environment for your fish to live in.
Zebra Danio
Zebra Danios are beautiful and lively little fish that make excellent tank mates for Bumblebee Gobies. These small, vibrantly striped fish are peaceful and active swimmers, usually found darting around the top and middle sections of a tank. They can adapt well to a wide range of water conditions, making them a great choice for beginner and experienced aquarists alike.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – feed small flake food, dried or live foods like brine shrimp, and vegetable matter
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Rummy Nose Tetra
The Rummy Nose Tetra is a playful and active fish species that adds a burst of color and energy to any tank. Hailing from the Amazon Basin, these fish are known for their red-nosed appearance and shimmering silver bodies, complemented by beautifully striped tails.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; feed a variety in the form of flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Considering their peaceful temperament and compatibility level, Rummy Nose Tetras make a great addition to Bumblebee Goby tanks. Just ensure to provide ample space and hiding places in the tank; as they like to shoal around, keeping a group of at least six Rummy Nose Tetras will create a lively and healthy environment.
Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus Catfish make great tank mates for Bumblebee Gobies due to their peaceful nature and their ability to help keep the tank clean of algae. These bottom-dwelling fish are quite small, usually growing to a length of around 2 inches (5 cm) at adulthood. Being social creatures, it’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least six.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum, preferably more for a group
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Mostly herbivore, feeds on algae, also accepts algae wafers and vegetables
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Be sure to provide hiding spots, such as plants and driftwood, for the Otocinclus Catfish to feel secure and maintain a balanced diet for their optimal health.
Kuhli Loach
If you’re searching for a unique and exciting tank mate for your Bumblebee Goby, look no further than the Kuhli Loach. These eel-like freshwater fish are known for their fascinating appearance, featuring thin, elongated bodies with striking horizontal bands.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful and active at night
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – enjoys sinking pellets, frozen foods, and live foods (worms, brine shrimp)
- Adult Size: 4 inches (10 cm)
The Kuhli Loach is an excellent addition to a community aquarium, as it is generally peaceful and non-aggressive. However, it’s important to keep in mind their nocturnal nature, which means they tend to be more active during the night. So, provide plenty of hiding spots for them to retreat to during the day, such as caves and dense plantings.
Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal Tetras are beautiful, small, and peaceful fish with a vibrant blue and red stripe running through their body. They make excellent tank mates for Bumblebee Gobies due to their calm nature and similar tank requirements.
Here are some quick facts about Cardinal Tetras that you should know before adding them to your Bumblebee Goby tank:
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, they’ll enjoy both dry and frozen foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Keep in mind that these fish prefer to be in groups, so it’s best to have at least five of them in your tank. This will ensure that they feel more secure and exhibit their natural behavior, making for a more enjoyable viewing experience.
Endler Guppy
Endler Guppies are striking, colorful fish that brighten your aquarium with their active swimming patterns. They are popular tank mates for Bumblebee Gobies due to their peaceful nature. These friendly fish get along beautifully with their tiny neighbors.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, high-quality flake or pellet food, and occasional live or frozen food
- Adult Size: 0.8 – 1.5 inches (2 – 3.8 cm)
Their active nature sometimes causes them to be a bit boisterous, so make sure to provide plenty of hiding spots for your Bumblebee Gobies. With proper care, Endler Guppies will happily coexist with their tiny tank mates, creating an eye-catching spectacle in your aquarium.
Golden Barb
Golden Barbs, also known as Schuberti Barbs, are an ideal choice as a tank mate for your Bumblebee Goby. These small, peaceful fish have a beautiful golden color, making them an attractive addition to any aquarium. They thrive in well-planted tanks that provide plenty of hiding spots, and they enjoy swimming in groups.
Let’s break down a few key aspects of Golden Barbs:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, will accept a variety of live, frozen, and flake foods
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
By maintaining proper water parameters and offering a well-planted environment, Golden Barbs can coexist happily with Bumblebee Gobies and help create a vibrant, lively tank.
Ghost Catfish
Ghost Catfish, also known as Glass Catfish, are an intriguing addition to a Bumblebee Goby tank. Their transparent bodies provide a unique look and they are naturally peaceful, making them a great tank mate.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; will eat small live, frozen, or flake foods; high-quality prepared foods are necessary for maintaining good health.
- Adult Size: 3 inches (7.5 cm)
Ghost Catfish prefer well-planted aquariums with moderate lighting, replicating their natural habitat. They enjoy swimming in schools, so it’s ideal to keep at least five of them together. Keep in mind that these fish are sensitive to water parameters; stable and clean water is essential for their well-being.
Ember Tetra
Ember Tetra, also known as the Fire Tetra, is a brilliant choice when it comes to Bumblebee Goby tank mates. These fish are popular due to their vibrant coloration and peaceful temperament. They make a stunning addition to any peaceful community tank and can get along well with Bumblebee Gobies. However, they can be slightly shy, so it’s essential to maintain a calm tank scenario.
Here are some key details about the Ember Tetra:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (flake food and live/frozen food)
- Adult Size: 0.8 inches (2 cm)
These small yet colorful fish are a great option to consider when looking for tank mates for your Bumblebee Goby. Just remember to maintain the appropriate water conditions and monitor the interactions between fish species to ensure compatibility.
Honey Gourami
Honey Gourami, also referred to as Trichogaster Chuna, is an excellent choice for a peaceful and colorful addition to your Bumblebee Goby tank. Native to South Asia, these fish have gained popularity among aquarium enthusiasts due to their striking appearance and easy care requirements.
A perfect companion for your Bumblebee Goby, Honey Gouramis are known for their distinct gentle nature, making them ideal for a peaceful community tank.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – Mainly vegetarian flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen food
- Adult Size: 1.6-2 inches (4-5 cm)
Amano Shrimp
Amano Shrimp, also known as Caridina multidentata, is a popular choice among aquarists due to its ability to consume large amounts of algae, turning your tank into a cleaner and livelier environment.
These peaceful and social creatures are known to work great with a Bumblebee Goby, as they share similar requirements and keep the tank clean and healthy for other inhabitants.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (approx. 38 liters) and above
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feeds on algae, biofilm and detritus, as well as prepared shrimp food
- Adult Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm)
Make sure to provide hiding spaces like plants and rocks so your Amano Shrimp can feel safe and stress-free when mingling with other tankmates.
Do Bumblebee Gobies Make Good Tank Mates?
In short, yes! Bumblebee Gobies are generally peaceful and make good tank mates with the right fish species. To ensure a harmonious aquarium, you need to choose suitable companions for your Bumblebee Goby.
The basic requirements for Bumblebee Gobies are the following:
- Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, but territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefers small live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches (4 cm)
How to Choose the Right Tank Mates for Bumblebee Goby?
When considering whether Bumblebee Gobies make good tank mates, keep in mind their specific needs and unique temperament. Bumblebee Gobies are small, peaceful, and somewhat shy fish, so it’s essential to choose compatible tank mates that won’t cause them stress or harm.
Size and temperament: Make sure to choose tank mates of a similar size and with a non-aggressive nature. Large, territorial, or highly aggressive fish may harass or even prey on your Bumblebee Gobies.
- Good options: Guppies, Corydoras catfish, Cherry shrimp, and snails
- Avoid: Cichlids, Arowanas, and large barbs
Habitat requirements: Bumblebee Gobies come from slow-moving or still water environments with a lot of hiding spots. Pick tank mates that thrive in similar conditions to guarantee a harmonious and healthy aquarium.
- Brackish water: Bumblebee Gobies can live in both freshwater and brackish water. If your goby is acclimated to brackish water, stick to tank mates that can tolerate mild salinity, such as nerite snails or some killifish species.
Feeding habits: It’s crucial to pair Bumblebee Gobies with other fish that have similar feeding habits, as they tend to be slow eaters. Fast eaters may outcompete your gobies for food, which could lead to malnutrition.
- Bumblebee Gobies usually prefer live or frozen food, like brine shrimp and bloodworms
- Tank mates should have similar diet preferences
Conclusion
Bumblebee Gobies can be great tank mates for various aquatic species when their specific needs are considered. By carefully selecting the right assortment of tank mates, you can create a vibrant, harmonious underwater community. Don’t hesitate to share your experience with Bumblebee Gobies and their tank mates in the comments below!
