25 Best Guppy Fish Tank Mates
Guppy fish are colorful, easy-to-care-for tropical fish that are widely popular amongst aquarium enthusiasts. One of the best aspects of owning guppies is finding tank mates that can coexist peacefully and thrive in the same environment. In this article, you’ll explore 25 fantastic guppy fish tank mates that make great additions to your aquarium.
Platy Fish
Platy Fish are an excellent choice to add vibrancy and a splash of color to your guppy fish tank. These hardy and peaceful fish provide an excellent contrast to guppies, which makes your aquarium even more interesting.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, flakes, pellets and live/frozen food
- Adult Size: 1.5-2.5 inches (4-6 cm)
It’s essential to ensure proper tank size for the platy fish, which is around 10 gallons. Platy Fish are low maintenance, making them ideal for beginners and busy aquarists. Their peaceful nature allows them to coexist harmoniously with guppies.
They enjoy a varied diet, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food options. The adult size ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, making them a perfect addition to your guppy community tank.
Molly Fish
Molly fish are a popular choice for guppy fish tank mates due to their docility and ability to adapt well to various environments. They come in various vibrant colors, making them an attractive addition to any aquarium. Mollies are livebearers, which means they give birth to live fry and can reproduce easily, just like guppies.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; accepts flake, pellet, live, and frozen foods
- Adult Size: 3-5 inches (7-12 cm)
It’s essential to maintain stable water conditions and a suitable tank size for both mollies and guppies to thrive together. Providing them with high-quality food, hiding spots, and a well-filtered tank is the key to keeping these wonderful fish happy and healthy.
Swordtail Fish
Swordtail Fish are a popular choice for guppy fish tank mates due to their peaceful nature and impressive appearance. They are known for their elongated, sword-like tails, which can create a stunning look in a community tank. They can coexist harmoniously with guppies, and since they are both livebearers, they can even share the same breeding tank.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 15 gallons (57 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous (flake food, live food, and vegetables)
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
It’s important to keep the tank well-planted with hiding spaces for Swordtail Fish, as this helps them feel secure in their environment. Their larger size compared to guppies means they do require more space, so make sure you take this into consideration when setting up your aquarium.
Neon Tetras
Neon Tetras are small, vibrant, and charming fish that easily catch the eye. Their compatibility with a variety of tankmates and peaceful nature make them a popular choice for novice and experienced aquarists alike.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (37.9 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – flake and pellet foods, as well as live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia
- Adult Size: 1.6 inches (4 cm)
Neon Tetras thrive in a densely planted aquarium where they can swim among the plants and hide if necessary. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a temperature range between 70°F (21°C) and 80°F (27°C).
These fish get along quite well with guppies, thanks to their gentle nature and penchant for swimming in schools. Adding Neon Tetras to your guppy tank will not only provide a colorful contrast but also create a stunning visual experience.
Corydoras
Corydoras are small and peaceful catfish that make ideal tank mates for Guppy fish. These bottom-dwelling fish do well in most community tanks thanks to their non-aggressive nature. They love to do their part in cleaning up leftover food particles from the tank floor, making them excellent tank cleaners.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, should be fed sinking pellets or flakes and occasionally live or frozen food
- Adult Size: 1.5-2.8 inches (3.8-7 cm)
Corydoras come in many varieties and patterns, adding visual appeal to your tank. They are also schooling fish and enjoy the company of their own kind, so it’s best to keep them in a group.
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos, also known as Ancistrus, are a popular and hardy addition to a Guppy fish tank. Their peaceful demeanor and their ability to control algae makes them perfect guppy tank mates. These fish are characterized by their flat bodies and unique bristle-like growth on their faces, especially in males.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20-30 gallons (75-115 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, algae sheets, blanched vegetables, and sinking pellets
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
To keep your Bristlenose Pleco happy and healthy, provide a tank with a variety of caves and hiding places. Additionally, it’s essential to maintain good water quality, as they are sensitive to poor water conditions. Overall, Bristlenose Plecos are fantastic tank mates for your guppy fish, providing both cleanliness and harmony.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gouramis are a popular addition to many guppy tanks because of their stunning colors and peaceful nature. They coexist well with guppies and other small fish, adding diversity to your aquarium. Even though they have a timid temperament, it’s still important to monitor interactions between Dwarf Gouramis and guppies since they will occasionally eat smaller fish.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed them a mix of dry flakes and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
- Adult Size: 3 inches (7.5 cm)
Bumblebee Goby
Bumblebee Gobies are a unique and visually striking addition to your guppy fish tank. These tiny fish resemble a bumblebee with their distinctive black and yellow stripes. They’re a peaceful species that will happily coexist with your guppies.
Bumblebee Gobies are quite small and do well in planted tanks. However, make sure that you provide hiding spots for these shy creatures such as small tubes, rock crevices or caves.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful and shy
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivore; live, frozen, or freeze-dried food
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
Make sure to closely monitor the water conditions, as Bumblebee Gobies prefer clean and stable conditions with a pH between 6.5-7.5. Also, note that they thrive best in brackish water, so adjusting the salinity of your tank will be vital for their well-being.
Harlequin Rasboras
Harlequin Rasboras are an excellent option for guppy fish tank mates due to their peaceful nature and striking appearance. These fish have a silver body with a black triangular patch, adding a splash of color to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gal (37.8 L)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; feed them high-quality flakes, frozen, and live foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Keep in mind that Harlequin Rasboras should be kept in a group of at least six individuals to ensure they feel comfortable in the tank. They will happily coexist with guppies, as they prefer the middle and top levels of the tank. Make sure to provide plenty of hiding spots and live plants to maintain a stress-free environment for these beautiful fish.
Zebra Danio
The Zebra Danio, also known as the Zebrafish, is renowned for its stunning striped pattern and lively nature. These small, energetic fish are a great choice for peaceful community tanks where they’ll provide an abundance of activity and entertainment. Zebra Danios are easy to care for, making them an ideal option for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Flakes, pellets, and live foods such as brine shrimp
- Adult Size: 2-2.5 inches (5-6.5 cm)
Their hardy nature also allows Zebra Danios to tolerate a wide range of water parameters, making it easier to introduce them to your guppy’s tank with minimal fuss. Just be mindful to provide ample swimming space and places for them to hide and explore, ensuring they feel comfortable and secure within their new environment.
Siamese Algae Eater
The Siamese Algae Eater (SAE) is a popular choice for guppy fish tank mates due to their peaceful temperament and compatibility with a variety of fish. SAEs are highly effective at controlling algae in your tank, which helps maintain a cleaner environment for all of your fish.
They can also add a touch of exotic beauty to your aquarium with their slender, elongated bodies and subtle colors.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, feeds primarily on algae but can also be given sinking pellets or blanched vegetables
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Siamese Algae Eaters are not only fantastic algae feeders, but they also make great tank mates for guppies due to their calm demeanor. Just ensure that you maintain an adequate tank size and provide a variety of food sources to keep them healthy and happy.
Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus Catfish, also known as “Otos,” are great companions for Guppy fish tanks. They are small tropical fish that thrive in freshwater environments. Otocinclus Catfish are peaceful and friendly creatures whose diet mainly consists of algae, making them excellent tank cleaners.
Since they are bottom dwellers, they contribute to the harmony of the tank by occupying a different region than the Guppies.
Here is a list of their required parameters in a tank:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Herbivore, primarily algae eater
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
To optimize the well-being of your Otocinclus Catfish, keep the water clean and provide hiding spots with rocks or plants to ensure their safety and comfort.
Kuhli Loach
Kuhli Loachs, also known as Coolie Loach, are an interesting addition to your guppy fish tank. These tropical, eel-like creatures originate from Southeast Asia and have a preference for soft, sandy or fine-gravel substrate. They have a nocturnal nature and spend most of their day hiding under the substrate, rocks, or plants.
They fit remarkably well within a guppy tank, as they pose no threat to the guppies and help maintain the tank environment.
Here’s a quick overview of their characteristics:
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, shy, and nocturnal
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; primarily substrate sifter and should be fed on sinking pellets or wafers, supplemented with live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 4 inches (10 centimeters)
Kuhli Loach makes an excellent tank mate for guppy fish, adding diversity and acting as a friendly scavenger to help keep the tank clean. Just make sure you provide them with appropriate hiding spots and a suitable substrate in which they can burrow.
Ram Cichlids
Ram Cichlids are colorful and vibrant additions to your guppy tank that also bring personality. These peaceful, friendly fish are a great choice for introducing variety into your aquarium and are sure to catch your eye with their stunning appearance.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, will eat both live and frozen foods, pellets, and flakes
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Ram Cichlids get along well with guppies and most small community fish species. They require clean, well-maintained water conditions and a properly sized tank. Their omnivorous diet and friendly temperaments make them low-maintenance tank mates for your guppies.
Discus Fish
Discus fish are known for their vibrant colors and unique shape, making them a popular choice for freshwater aquariums. Despite their striking appearance, discus fish can be quite sensitive and require some extra care to thrive.
Let’s explore the details on this particular species:
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 50 gallons (190 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Intermediate to advanced
- Temperament: Peaceful but a bit shy
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivore – high-quality prepared food, as well as frozen or live food
- Adult Size: 6-8 inches (15-20 cm)
As for compatibility, discus fish can live alongside guppies, but their ideal water conditions differ. To achieve the perfect balance, invest time in understanding their unique needs and make slight adjustments to meet these, ensuring a healthy tank environment for both.
Emperor Tetras
Emperor Tetras (Nematobrycon palmeri) are a small, colorful, and peaceful fish that make great tank mates for guppy fish. They originate from the slow-moving, blackwater rivers of Colombia and can add color and interest to a community tank with their unique blue and green iridescent hues.
Here are some specifics about Emperor Tetras that make them excellent companions for guppies:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, will accept a variety of flake, pellet, frozen, and live foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Emperor Tetras are a perfect choice for a community tank with similar-sized and temperament fish, which is why they are popular among guppy enthusiasts. They require clean water, but otherwise, their care is relatively straightforward and simple, making them low-maintenance tank mates.
Cherry Barb
Cherry Barbs are a popular fish species known for their bright red color and peaceful demeanor. They make excellent tank mates for guppy fish because they are both small and non-aggressive. Here is important information about Cherry Barbs that make them one of the best choices for a guppy fish tank mate:
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; readily accepts flake food, pellets, frozen, and live foods
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
These colorful fish prefer a heavily planted tank with some open swimming spaces. They are also a schooling fish, so it’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least 6. Overall, Cherry Barbs are a great addition to any guppy fish tank.
Rummy-Nose Tetra
The Rummy-Nose Tetra, known for its red nose and striped tail, is a great addition to any guppy fish tank. They are quite the social and active species, and are known to be incredibly peaceful, which can be a great companion for your guppy fish.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 15 gallons (57 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, flake food, bloodworms and live or freeze-dried daphnia
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
If you choose to add the Rummy-Nose Tetra to your guppy tank, ensure that the tank is sufficiently spacious to accommodate their active nature. Additionally, they do best in groups of six or more, so make sure you have enough room for their schooling behavior. Overall, their peaceful demeanor and interesting appearance make them a great companion for your guppy fish.
Cardinal Tetras
Cardinal Tetras are known for their vibrant red and blue colors, making them one of the most visually appealing fish species for a guppy tank. They are small, peaceful, and hardy, capable of adapting to various water conditions. This makes them perfect candidates as tank mates for guppies.
However, keep in mind that they do prefer slightly warmer water temperatures compared to guppies. So, finding a middle ground will be necessary.
Here’s an overview of the Cardinal Tetra:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)
Cardinal Tetras are schooling fish, so it’s best to keep them in groups of at least six or more. This will not only ensure their well-being but also create a stunning display as they swim together in your tank.
Glass Catfish
The Glass Catfish is an elegant and unique fish species that can make a great addition to your guppy fish tank. As their name suggests, Glass Catfish have a semi-transparent body whose internal organs can be seen, which adds a touch of intrigue to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – live, frozen, and flake foods
- Adult Size: 3 inches (7.5 cm)
These graceful swimmers prefer to be in groups, so it’s best to keep at least four to six Glass Catfish together. They require clean, well-maintained water with a mild current to replicate their natural habitat.
While they are relatively peaceful, Glass Catfish can be timid and prone to stress, so they should be housed with other gentle fish species. Guppies, Corydoras, and Neon Tetras can be suitable companions for the Glass Catfish in your community tank.
Hatchet Fish
Hatchet fish are unique, surface-dwelling aquarium fish that are known for their peculiar shape, resembling a hatchet. They thrive in community tanks and are compatible with a variety of other peaceful fish species, including guppies. Hatchet fish are generally hardy and easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; flakes, pellets, and live foods like brine shrimp and micro-worms
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
When keeping hatchet fish in your aquarium, keep in mind that they are excellent jumpers, so a secure tank lid is essential. Additionally, they prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spaces and a gentle water flow.
White Cloud Minnow
White Cloud Minnows are a fantastic choice for your guppy fish tank as they are adaptable, hardy, and peaceful additions. These small fish add movement and color to your tank while coexisting peacefully with their guppy tank mates.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (37.85 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
White Cloud Minnows are quite adaptable to various water conditions, from cooler to warmer temperatures. However, they prefer temperatures in the range of 64-72°F (18-22°C).
It’s essential to maintain stable water parameters and feed them a varied diet to ensure their well-being and enhance their captivating colors. Provide hiding spots for them in your guppy tank to reduce stress and ensure a more harmonious environment.
Black Skirt Tetra
Black Skirt Tetras are beautiful, schooling fish that make a charming addition to your guppy tank. They have a striking black and silver color combination, along with a unique, triangular-shaped body. They are peaceful, hardy and quite undemanding, making them a fantastic choice for your guppy community tank.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, which means they need a varied diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.
- Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6.3 cm)
Ensure that you have a relatively large tank for these fish to swim around, and they’ll easily coexist with your guppies without causing any problems. Their peaceful nature means they’ll enjoy the company of both your guppies and other suitable tank mates.
Peacock Gudgeon
The Peacock Gudgeon is an attractive and colorful fish originating from the rivers of Papua New Guinea. Its stunning mix of blues, pinks, and yellows make it a popular choice for a guppy fish tank mate. They are small, non-aggressive, and typically thrive well with guppies. These fish are also relatively easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for novice aquarium enthusiasts.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; primarily feeding on insects, small crustaceans, and plant material. Commercially available flake and pellet foods, as well as frozen or live brine shrimp and daphnia, make up a suitable diet.
- Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.4 cm)
Hoplo Catfish
Hoplo Catfish are one of the best choices to consider when looking for an ideal tank mate for your guppy fish. These South American bottom dwellers are not only friendly and sociable but also do an excellent job of keeping the tank clean by feeding on any leftover food and debris.
A fascinating aspect of this species is their ability to survive in various tank conditions, making them a suitable pet for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) and above
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, high-quality pellets, sinking wafers, and occasional live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Hoplo Catfish are a great addition to your guppy community tank, as they are easy to care for and will peacefully coexist with other fish.
How to Choose Tank Mates for Guppies?
Choosing the right tank mates for your guppies is important for their health and happiness. Follow these guidelines to ensure a harmonious environment:
- Size: Opt for fish that are similar in size to guppies. This reduces the chances of your guppies being stressed or becoming food for larger fish.
- Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive fish are ideal. Avoid fish species known for their territorial behavior or those that might nip at your guppies’ fins.
- Diet: Make sure the new tank mates have similar dietary requirements. This helps in the smooth feeding of all the fish in the tank.
- Water Parameters: Consider species that thrive in the same water conditions as guppies. Check the pH, temperature, and hardness requirements.
Here are a few good tank mates for guppies:
- Tetras: Small, peaceful, and schooling fish like Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, and Rummy Nose Tetras.
- Corydoras Catfish: Peaceful bottom-dwellers that help keep your tank clean.
- Platies & Mollies: Both of these species are livebearers and share similar needs with guppies.
- Danios: Like guppies, they are hardy, peaceful, and active swimmers.
- Dwarf Gourami: Another peaceful fish that can add color and variety to your guppy tank.
- Shrimps & Snails: Cherry Shrimps and Nerite Snails are great for keeping your tank clean and serve as good companions.
Remember, when introducing new tank mates, monitor them closely to ensure compatibility. Provide hiding spaces and plants to create a comfortable environment for all your fish.
What are the Worst Tank Mates for Guppies?
When it comes to choosing tank mates for your guppies, it’s important to ensure compatibility with your little swimmers. Selecting the wrong tank mates can lead to aggression, stress, or even death for your guppies. Now, let’s explore some of the species you should avoid:
- Aggressive fish: Fish like cichlids, bettas, and large barbs are known for their territorial nature and can harm your guppies. These species are best kept separate to avoid unwanted confrontations.
- Fin-nippers: Serpae Tetras, Tiger Barbs, and Black Widow Tetras can damage guppies’ delicate fins and intimidate them. To ensure their safety, steer clear from adding these fish to your tank.
- Predatory fish: Guppies are small and may easily become prey for larger carnivorous fish like angelfish, arowanas, and oscars. To prevent your guppies from becoming a snack, avoid these larger fish altogether.
- Fish with incompatible water parameters: Always keep in mind the water conditions guppies thrive in (e.g., temperature, pH, and hardness). For instance, discus fish require much warmer water, while goldfish produce heavy waste and might pollute the water.
It’s essential to carefully consider your options when adding tank mates for your guppies. Some fish simply don’t mix well and may have harmful impacts on your guppies’ health and well-being.
By avoiding aggressive fish, fin-nippers, predatory fish, and those with incompatible water requirements, you can ensure a safe and happy environment for your vibrant aquarium.
Conclusion
Selecting the right guppy fish tank mates is an essential aspect of maintaining a thriving and harmonious aquatic community. With the list of 25 ideal companions above, you are sure to find the perfect tank mates for your guppies. Feel free to share your experience with these tank mates or any suggestions for others in the comments below.
