25 Celestial Pearl Danio Tank Mates

Choosing a tank mate for your Celestial Pearl Danios goes beyond picking any fish that catches your eye. It’s crucial to consider factors such as size, temperament, and water requirements. This ensures harmony in your aquarium, and it promotes the well-being of your aquatic pets.

by Fabian

Updated: August 7, 2023 / 16 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

Below, you can find 25 species that make good companions for Celestial Pearl Danios (also known as Galaxy Rasboras):

Neon Tetra

A popular choice for many aquarium enthusiasts, Neon Tetras add a beautiful splash of color. Sharing your Celestial Pearl Danio’s tank with these quick, vibrant swimmers is a great idea.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-78° F (22-26° C)
• Care Level: Beginner
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. They thrive on a varied diet of brine shrimp, daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and high-quality flake food.
• Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)

Neons are both striking and calm, making them ideal tank mates for your pearl danios. Their peaceful temperament, similar needs, and lifestyle make them perfect partners for a thriving aquatic community.

Cardinal Tetra

The Cardinal Tetra can be an ideal tank mate for your Celestial Pearl Danio. They are small, peaceful, and share similar tank conditions. Cardinal Tetras light up the tank with their bright neon stripe running along their bodies.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Both species grant each other space and co-exist harmoniously. Cardinal Tetras are hearty eaters that enjoy a variety of foods, adding to the simplicity of care. They tend to stick together and swim in schools, providing your tank with a dynamic and vibrant appeal. Considering these factors, you can confidently add Cardinal Tetras to your aquarium.

Harlequin Rasbora

Harlequin Rasboras are an excellent choice for a Celestial Pearl Danio tank due to their peaceful and social nature. They love swimming in groups, and their vibrant colors add a splash of beauty to your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5/5. Celestial Pearl Danios and Harlequin Rasboras make an excellent pair due to their shared preference for calm, serene environments.
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (76 liters).
• Temperature Range: 72-81°F (22-27°C).
• Care Level: Easy. They adapt quickly to new environments.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They’re known to get along well with most fish species.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. Feed them a combination of dry flakes and live foods.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm). A great match in size with the modest Celestial Pearl Danio.

Ember Tetra

Ember Tetra is a vibrant, warm-hued fish species that can coexist very well with the tiny and peaceful Celestial Pearl Danio.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73°-84° F (23°-29° C)
• Care Level: Easy. They are hardy and make an excellent choice for beginners.
• Temperament: Peaceful yet lively. They can liven up your celestial tank by adding splashes of vibrant fiery colors.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Feed them flake food, freeze-dried bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
• Adult Size: Maximum length of 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Ember Tetras are smaller size fish, but they need plenty of swimming space. They add an extra touch of color and character to your danios’ surroundings, making them a highly popular choice.

Rummy Nose Tetra

The Rummy Nose Tetra, beaming with its distinctive red nose and zebra-striped tail, makes a delightful addition to your aquarium community.

• Compatibility: 5/5. A sociable species, it gets on beautifully with Celestial Pearl Danios.
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gal (75.7 liters). Given the Tetra’s love for swimming, a spacious habitat is non-negotiable.
• Temperature Range: 75-81°F (24-27°C). It thrives in warmer water mimicking its tropical origin.
• Care Level: Intermediate. It demands pristine water conditions with little room for aberration.
• Temperament: Peaceful. It’s well-known for its amiable nature.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Feed a variety of flake, frozen, and live foods.
• Adult Size: 2.2 inches (5.6cm). Quite petite, their size does not undercut their distinctive appeal.

Chili Rasbora

The Chili Rasbora is a small, vibrant fish that also makes a fabulous Celestial Pearl Danio tank mate. These fish sport a brilliant, fiery red color that adds a splash of excitement to your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5/5 – They are peaceful and thrive in the same conditions as Danios.
• Tank Size: 10 gal (37.8 liters) – Space is essential for their swimming.
• Temperature Range: 74-82°F (23-28°C) – Warm, tropical temperatures suit them best.
• Care Level: Easy – Great for beginners and experts alike.
• Temperament: Peaceful – They get along well with other species.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – They love a diet of small live, frozen, and flake foods.
• Adult Size: 0.8 inches (2 cm) – They remain quite small, even at adult size.

Dwarf Rasbora

The Dwarf Rasbora, a vibrant fish species, borders on perfect compatibility with the Celestial Pearl Danio with a score of 5 out of 5. They both prefer similar habitats.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 5 – 10gal (19 – 38L)
• Temperature Range: 74 – 79°F (23 – 26°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoys live or frozen food, like brine shrimp.
• Adult Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Dwarf Rasboras share a comparable temperament to the Celestial Pearl Danios – both are peaceful species. Despite their small size, they make a visually compelling addition to a vibrant and active tank.

Black Neon Tetra

The Black Neon Tetra is an appealing addition to any celestial pearl danio community tank. Flaunting vibrant silver and black colors, they possess a peaceful demeanor that makes them an adaptable choice.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 68-78°F (20-25°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys a diet of flake food, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

Although they prefer dimmed lighting and densely planted environments, their resilience against varying tank conditions makes them an excellent tank mate for celestial pearl danios. Make sure to maintain a good nutritional balance to keep them active and colorful.

Endler’s Livebearer

Endler’s Livebearers form a stunning contrast against Celestial Pearl Danios with their vibrant colors and sparkling behavior.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gal (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 68-80°F (20-27°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores, they enjoy plant-based foods and protein sources alike.
• Adult Size: Up to 1.8 in (4.5 cm)

Ensure you incorporate plant life to mimic the natural habitat of Endler’s Livebearers. For harmonious cohabitation, make sure your tank is not crowded, as they appreciate some space to swim freely. Remember to feed them a balanced diet to maintain their energetic behavior and radiant color.

Pygmy Corydoras

Pygmy Corydoras, also known as dwarf corydoras, is a small fish species that makes an ideal companion for your Celestial Pearl Danio. Not a troublemaker, it’s comfortable with living peacefully at the bottom of the tank, while Danio swims freely above. It’s a win-win for both.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gal or 37.9 liter
• Temperature Range: 72° – 79° F or 22° – 26° C
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys a diet of both plant matter and small invertebrates
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches or 3.8 cm

Over time, you’ll find the pygmy corydoras one of the most exciting fish to share a tank with your pearl danios.

Silver Tip Tetra

Silver Tip Tetras are engaging, silver-hued companions – swiftly becoming popular in the fish enthusiast community. Their active behavior and shimmering persona make them a delightful addition to a Celestial Pearl Danio tank.

• Compatibility: 5/5 – They’re peaceful and sociable, making them excellent tank buddies.
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters) – Give them adequate room to swim.
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C) – They love mild to slightly warm water.
• Care Level: Easy – Their hardy nature suits beginners to seasoned aquarists.
• Temperament: Peaceful – They cohabit without instigating aggression.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Balanced diet of flakes, pellets, and live food.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm) – Despite their small size, they radiate personality.

Including Silver Tip Tetras will enhance your tank environment, creating a lively underwater show.

Golden Tetra

The Golden Tetra, a radiant addition to your tank, is a resilient, peaceful fish. With consistent care, these fish can live in harmonious unity with Celestial Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 10 Gal (38 L) minimum
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous—feed them flakes, small pellets, and live food
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm)

Remember, Golden Tetras are schooling fish. A group of five or more will enhance their beautiful reflective scales that give these fish their namesake. At the same time, the companionship will reduce anxiety, increasing their lifespan.

Otocinclus Catfish

The Otocinclus Catfish is a peaceful fish, making it an ideal partner for your Celestial Pearl Danios. These algae eaters complement Pearl Danios well.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Primarily herbivore, it thrives on algae present on tank surfaces or structures. Supplement with veggies or sinking wafers if needed.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 centimeters)

These small catfish offer great utility in keeping your aquarium clean while co-existing amicably with Celestial Pearl Danios. Being relatively hardy, they can adjust well to varying water conditions. Keep them in a group for their comfort and natural behavior, while also providing hiding spaces for them to rest.

Sparkling Gourami

Sparkling Gourami, vividly adorned with shiny blue spots, make a delightful addition to the Pearl Danio habitat. Renowned for their peaceful demeanor, they live harmoniously alongside Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 77-82°F (25-28°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, can eat small pellets and flakes, loves brine shrimp and daphnia.
• Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

A little attention to their dietary needs and comfortable temperature range goes a long way in ensuring their holistic health. Team your Pearl Danios with Sparkling Gourami for that quintessential pop of color in your aquarium. Remember, a diverse aquatic world is a happy one!

Dwarf Gourami

Dwarf Gourami are strikingly vibrant fish, an ideal addition to your Celestial Pearl Danio tanks. Possessing a peaceful temperament, they harmonize well together.

• Compatibility: 4/5. Just remember to maintain a ratio of one male to several females.
• Tank size: 10 gallons or 38 liters is adequate. Larger tanks offer more swimming space, though.
• Temperature range: 72-82°F or 22-28°C.
• Care Level: Easy. They have a hardy nature and adapt quickly.
• Temperament: Mostly calm. Males can be territorial with each other.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. High-quality flakes, live, or frozen foods are suitable.
• Adult Size: 2-3.5 inches or 5-9 centimeters. They add a splash of color and don’t demand too much space.

Honey Gourami

Honey Gouramis are bright, peaceful fish, known for their gentle composure. Here are a few traits that make them an ideal companion for your Celestial Pearl Danio:

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75.7 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful, yet slightly territorial in small tanks.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Enjoy a mixture of flake food, freeze-dried worms, brine shrimp, and fresh green vegetables.
• Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm)

Remember, these non-aggressive fish prefer lived-in environments with plenty of hiding spots. So, set up their sanctuary appropriately. A right mix of species accommodates their shy nature and allows their bright colors to pop!

Bristlenose Pleco

You might consider introducing the Bristlenose Pleco to your Celestial Pearl Danio tank. This peaceful bottom-dweller shares a similar water preference to your danios. With bristle-like whiskers, it is not only endearing but an efficient tank cleaner to boot!

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (Prefers algae and sinking pellets)
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches (13 cm) Bristlenose Plecos are ideal tankmates for many species due to their docile nature and helpful algae-eating habits. Just ensure to provide driftwood, as it’s essential for their digestion.

Dwarf Pencilfish

This small and delicate bonus tank mate – the Dwarf Pencilfish – makes a perfect pal for your celestial pearl danios. Dwarf pencilfish hails from South America and is known for its peaceful temperament.

Dwarf Pencilfish Photo by Mobile Gnome CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gal (37.85 – 75.70 liter)
• Temperature Range: 73-82°F (22 – 28°C)
• Care Level: Intermediate to Experienced
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – They prefer live, small food with occasional dry flakes as a supplement
• Adult Size: 1 – 1.5 inches.

They must be kept in a densely planted tank that mimics their natural habitat. Dwarf Pencilfish possesses a unique character of swimming in the middle and lower levels of water, an attribute that makes them even more appealing. Remember, a calm environment is key to nurturing these serene creatures.

Glowlight Tetra

When it comes to peaceful fish, the Glowlight Tetra lights the way. Its vibrant color brings a touch of the ethereal to your tank.

• Compatibility: 5/5. These fish get along exceptionally well with Danios.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gal (38 liters). They crave a spacious environment.
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C). They prefer warmer waters.
• Care Level: Easy. A perfect choice for novices.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They wouldn’t hurt a fish flake.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They’re happy with a variety of food.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm). They won’t overcrowd your tank.

With their fuss-free care requirements, Glowlight Tetras make a radiant and stress-free addition to any Celestial Pearl Danio society.

White Cloud Mountain Minnow

The White Cloud Mountain Minnow, with its vibrant colors, is a popular choice to pair with your Celestial Pearl Danio. Despite their brilliant beauty, these fish are hardy and simple to care for, perfect for beginners.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 64 – 72°F (17.7 – 22.2°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (Small pellets and flake foods, frozen or live feeds)
• Adult Size: Up to 1.5 in (3.8 cm)

They prefer clean, moderately-flowing water with some hiding spots but also plenty of swimming space. It makes the mighty minnow a perfect companion for your Celestial Pearl Danios to flourish together in a serene aquatic ambiance.

Threadfin Rainbowfish

Threadfin Rainbowfish are a stunning addition to a Celestial Pearl Danio tank. Noted for their unique appearance, they boast delicate, thread-like fins that are truly eye-catching.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (76 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful but active
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – enjoys a diet of high-quality flake foods, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

Their care needs align excellently with the Celestial Pearl Danio, and their peaceful and active nature ensures they are a delightful companion in the tank. Consideration must be given to their slightly larger size, with a tank minimum of 20 gallons being ideal to provide ample room.

Ghost Shrimp

Ghost Shrimp, with their translucent bodies and agile nature, make an engaging choice for your Celestial Pearl Danio’s tank.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 65 to 82°F (18 to 28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful, active
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. They thrive on a diet of vegetables and aquatic plants but also enjoy meaty treats.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

These flexible beings are not just mesmerizing to observe, but they also carry out vital cleaning tasks within your aquarium. Ghost shrimp are proficient scavengers, effectively consuming excess food and detritus.

But remember, they also require supplemental feeding to thrive. Their small size and peaceful nature make them a friendly addition alongside Celestial Pearl Danios.

Cherry Shrimp

Cherry Shrimp, also known as Neocaridina davidi, add a splash of vibrant color to any aquarium. They are quiet, non-aggressive, and gel well with Celestial Pearl Danios. 

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (40 liters)
• Temperature Range: 65 – 80°F (18-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, prefer algae, biofilm, but also take shrimp pellets
• Adult Size: Up to 1.6 inches (4 cm)

Cherry Shrimps love hiding behind plants and decors, so decorate your tank accordingly. Providing them a peaceful, calm environment can ensure they breed effortlessly, filling your aquarium with their vibrant presence. Make sure to avoid any aggressive or large fish that could see them as potential food.

Amano Shrimp

Noted for their algae-eating prowess, Amano Shrimp make fantastic additions to a Celestial Pearl Danio tank.

• Compatibility: 5/5 – Amano Shrimp are peaceful and can coexist well with Pearl Danios.
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters) – Similar to Danios, they appreciate room to explore.
• Temperature Range: 70-80°F (21-27°C) – A comfortable range for both species.
• Care Level: Easy – They are hardy and adjustable to different conditions.
• Temperament: Peaceful – These shrimps contribute towards a calm aquatic environment.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – Feed them a diet of algae, detritus, and the occasional protein-rich treat.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5cm) – Their small size makes them unobtrusive tank occupants.

Remember, the addition of hiding spots can maximize their comfort and longevity in your tank.

Bamboo Shrimp

Known for their filter-feeding nature, Bamboo Shrimp can be excellent tank mates for your Celestial Pearl Danios. These peaceful crustaceans are quite non-disruptive and exhibit enchanting behaviors, especially while feeding. Since they are larger than other shrimp species, they can hold their own in a community tank setting.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-77°F (21-25°C)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, filter feeder
• Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)

Remember that the Bamboo Shrimp’s distinct feeding style necessitates the presence of a sponge filter and a fine substrate like sand can make them feel more at home.

Conclusion

So here you have it – 25 sensational choices for Pearl Danio tank mates. There are numerous species of fish and invertebrates that will perfectly match your celestial pearl danios. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment with your favorite tank mate choice for these radiant fish.