25 Lemon Tetra Tank Mates

When choosing tank mates for your Lemon Tetras, consider behavior and size compatibility. Friendly and peaceful species around the same size make ideal companions. Water parameters and diet compatibility are other factors to ponder.

by Fabian

Updated: August 31, 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.

Neon Tetra

The Neon Tetra is a vibrant, peaceful species that pairs excellently with the Lemon Tetra. Both fish share similar characteristics and needs, making the Neon Tetra a great companion.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 70-81°F (21-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful and sociable
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Requires a varied diet of high-quality flake foods, brine shrimp, and daphnia
• Adult Size: Up to 1.2 inches (3 cm)

Neons are schooling fish, preferring to be in groups of six or more. They’re hardy, adaptable, and can live up to five years in optimal conditions, ensuring a colorful and energetic display in your aquarium for a considerable time.

Cardinal Tetra

The Cardinal Tetra is a beautifully colored, peaceful fish that is a great choice for a companion to your Lemon Tetra. These small fish are easy to care for and love swimming in schools.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: 15-20 gallons (57-76 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – high-quality flake food and occasional live foods.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Bright blue and red in color, the Cardinal Tetras are a vivid addition to your aquarium. Just ensure that the water conditions in your tank are stable, as they are susceptible to abrupt changes in water parameters.

Rummy-Nose Tetra

The Rummy-nose Tetra sports a striking red nose, emphasizing its unique theatrical nature.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5, They are quite congenial with Lemon Tetras.
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters), providing ample space for their active swimming habits.
• Temperature Range: 75-84°F (24-29°C), ideal for their tropical nature.
• Care Level: Easy. Regular water changes and balanced feeding will keep them healthy.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They favor a tranquil tank atmosphere.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Feed them a diet of flakes, pellets, and freeze-dried bloodworms for a balanced diet.
• Adult Size: Up to 2.8 inches (7 cm), a medium-sized fish that adds noticeable vibrancy to your tank.

In conclusion, the Rummy-nose Tetra is a captivating, easy-to-care-for addition to your Lemon Tetra aquarium.

Black Neon Tetra

Black Neon Tetra is a stunning addition to your Lemon Tetra community. Sharing the same peaceful disposition, they get along quite well. Striking black and white contrasting bars on their bodies add an aesthetic appeal to your tank.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 15-20 gal (57-76 liter)
• Temperature Range: 70-81°F (21-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – they happily feed on flakes, granules, and even frozen or live foods.
• Adult Size: 1.5 in (4 cm)

Just like the Lemon Tetras, Black Neons are a schooling fish. So, remember to have at least a group of six to keep them happy and stress-free. These small swimmers are sure to bring fun and color to your aquatic world.

Glowlight Tetra

Your Lemon Tetra will love the calm and cool company of the Glowlight Tetra. These small freshwater fish are a perfect addition to your aquarium as they thrive in similar water conditions.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5. Excellently compatible.
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters). A larger tank is preferable for ample swimming space.
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C). Keep a heater and a thermometer handy to maintain this optimal temperature.
• Care Level: Easy. They’re quite low-maintenance and beginner-friendly.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They generally keep to themselves, making them excellent for your Lemon Tetra Tank.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Flake food, freeze-dried food, and plant matter will be perfectly suitable for them.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm). They are small in size and non-threatening to your Lemon Tetras.

Bestowed with appealing silvery-pink hue, the Glowlight Tetra’s peaceful nature and easy care make them a wonderful choice as tank mates for your Lemon Tetras.

Corydoras Catfish

The Corydoras Catfish, affectionately known as Corys, are docile bottom dwellers. Their gentle nature and quirky activity make them a great fit for a Lemon Tetra tank.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-78 F (21-25 C)
• Care Level: Easy. They maintain a robust constitution.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They make for unobtrusive tank mates.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. A mixed diet of plant and animal matter is recommended.
• Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6.35 cm)

Just be sure to give them plenty of hiding spots to make them feel at home. Now, let’s move on to our next vivacious Lemon Tetra friend, the Otocinclus Catfish.

Otocinclus Catfish

The Otocinclus Catfish is an excellent choice for a tank mate with Lemon Tetras. Known for their calm demeanor, these small catfish blend harmoniously into a community tank.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 70-79°F (21-26°C)
• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Mostly herbivore. They love nibbling on algae, but also appreciate vegetables and specialized feed.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Otocinclus Catfish are efficient algae eaters, making them valuable contributors to keeping your tank clean. Remember to give them plenty of hiding spots – they enjoy places to rest and feel safe.

Harlequin Rasbora

With a peaceful temperament and striking triangular marking, Harlequin Rasboras are ideal tank mates for Lemon Tetras. These charming creatures coexist without issue, enhancing the harmony within your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4.5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 15gal or 60L minimum
• Temperature Range: 72-81°F or 22-27°C
• Care Level: Beginner
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore
• Adult Size: 2in or 5cm

Famous for their adaptability, Harlequins are an excellent choice for beginners. Their diet consists of both plant-based and meaty foods, providing a nutritional balance. With a small adult size of two inches, they make for a non-threatening companion to your Lemon Tetras.

Notably, a minimum of a 15-gallon tank is recommended to allow sufficient space for swimming and hiding. Temperature-wise, they favor a range between 72-81°F, parallel to the Lemon Tetra’s preference.

Cherry Barb

The Lemon Tetra can find a compatible, vibrant companion in the Cherry Barb.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 25-30 gal (95-115 liters).
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C).
• Care Level: Easy.
• Temperament: Peaceful and social.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, accepts both flake and live food.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Cherry Barbs are schooling fish and perform best in a group. Their active, playful nature makes them great Lemont Tetra tank mates. Plus, their rich red and gold hues add a touch of bright color to your aquarium. Care for them is straightforward, with their forgiving nature and omnivorous diet making them accessible for novice aquarists.

Bristlenose Pleco

Bristlenose Plecos, a favorite among Lemon Tetra owners, sport a unique look with their spiky whiskers. They’re calm companions that live harmoniously with Lemon Tetras.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (113 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Mainly herbivores; feed algae, vegetables, and sinking pellets.
• Adult Size: 4–6 inches (10- 15 cm)

Bristlenose Pleco are nocturnal but may also come out during the day, which can provide ample entertaining moments for you. With a strong diet of algae and detritus, these fish can help keep your tank clean. Remember they appreciate hiding spaces, so make sure to include caves in their habitat.

Zebra Danio

The Zebra Danio is a classic addition to community tanks. With their zippy swim patterns and stunning horizontal stripes, they add vibrancy to any aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5/5. Lemon Tetra and Zebra Danio live peaceably together.
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L). Enough to comfortably accommodate both species.
• Temperature Range: 64-75°F (17-24°C). This range suits both the Lemon Tetra and Zebra Danio.
• Care Level: Easy. These small fish are low-maintenance and hardy.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They rarely get aggressive with tank mates.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. A diet of quality flake food and occasional daphnia or bloodworms keeps them healthy.
• Adult Size: 2 in (5 cm). Their small size ensures they don’t overcrowd the aquarium or intimidate other fish.

By adding the Zebra Danio to your tank, you’ll bring energy and aesthetic appeal, without disrupting your Lemon Tetras.

White Cloud Mountain Minnow

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are stellar roommates for your Lemon Tetras. Hailing from the cool streams of China, they’re known for their peaceable demeanour and simple care.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Temperature Range: 64-72°F (18-22°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; enjoy a balanced diet of flake food, live, freeze-dried or frozen foods.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8cm)

White Clouds are easy to care for, making them perfect for beginners. They’re known for their vibrant hues of red, white, and blue. Most of all, they’re kindly disposed towards their tank mates, making them ideal companions for your Lemon Tetras.

Dwarf Gourami

An impressive, iridescent splash of color, the Dwarf Gourami complements the playful Lemon Tetra in a shared aquarium environment.

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) – Gouramis enjoy room to swim and hide, offering a rich environment for both species.
• Compatibility: 4 out of 5 – Lemon Tetras and Dwarf Gouramis coexist harmoniously, given appropriate tank size and conditions.
• Temperature Range: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)- This range ensures optimal health and vitality for these tropical fish.
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful – Like Lemon Tetras, Dwarf Gouramis are sociable, non-aggressive fish.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Accommodate a varied diet of pellets, live, frozen, and flake foods.
• Adult Size: Up to 3.5 inches (8.9cm) – Their small size makes them ideal for communal tanks.

Honey Gourami

Honey Gourami are widely praised for their strikingly beautiful and serene nature, making them ideal tank mates for your Lemon Tetra.

• Compatibility: 4.5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (feeds on brine shrimp and daphnia)
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Their easy care level and peaceful temperament make them pleasurable fish to keep. But remember, the diet and climate should be maintained within the ideal range to ensure their longevity and vibrant color.

Platy Fish

The Platy Fish, known for their vivid colors and lively nature, add a splash of vibrancy to your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; they require a mix of plant-based and meaty foods
• Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6.4 cm)

Platies appreciate aquariums with plenty of hiding spaces, so consider providing densely planted areas. They are also prolific breeders, so be prepared for potential fry if you keep both males and females.

Though they are predominantly peaceful, males can occasionally harass females, so a good ratio to consider is two females for every male. Their hardiness and relatively easy care make them an ideal tank mate for your lemon tetra.

Molly Fish

Molly Fish make vibrant additions to your aquarium, and they can be great buddies for your Lemon Tetras.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72 to 78°F (22 to 26°C)
• Care Level: Beginner-friendly
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – Generic flake or pellet food is sufficient
• Adult Size: Up to 4.5 inches (11cm)

Mollies thrive best in a calm environment with ample space to swim. They have a peace-loving temperament that works well with the playful nature of the Lemon Tetra. Along with that, they are not fussy eaters which makes managing their dietary needs a breeze. If you’re an aquarium newbie, Mollies are perfect starters due to their easy care level.

Guppy Fish

When it comes to colorful friends for your lemon tetras, the Guppy Fish qualifies with top marks. Known for their dazzling, vibrant scales, they’ll add a luminous touch to your aquatic scene.

• Compatibility: 4/5. Guppies are peaceful and Get along well with Lemon Tetras.
• Tank Size: Minimum of 5 gal (19 liters). They love to swim, so a bigger tank is always better.
• Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C). They prefer warm environments.
• Care Level: Easy. They are quite hardy and adaptable creatures.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They won’t cause any trouble in your tank!
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Feed them flakes, freeze-dried worms, and occasional fresh veggies.
• Adult Size: 1-2.5 inches (2.5-6.3cm). Perfect size for shared tanks.

With their bright personalities and easy-going nature, Guppies are a fantastic choice.

Endler’s Livebearer

Endler’s Livebearer, a vibrant fish with distinct patterns and colors, makes a fantastic tank mate for your Lemon Tetra. Like the tetras, these small, peaceful fish love to swim in groups.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-81°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. They thrive on a varied diet of brine shrimp, daphnia, and vegetable flakes.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

With their high compatibility grading, low maintenance needs, and lively behavior, the Endler’s Livebearer is a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts. Plus, their attractive appearance adds a great deal of visual appeal to any tank.

Swordtail Fish

With their slender bodies and unique sword-like tails, Swordtail fish make exciting additions to a Lemon Tetra tank. Their lively demeanor and vibrancy contribute to an active community aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 15 gallons (56 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed them with a balanced diet of flakes, live, and frozen foods.
• Adult Size: Up to 5.5 inches (14 cm)

They’ll peacefully coexist with Lemon Tetras, given enough space and hiding spots. Although Swordtails enjoy swimming throughout all levels of the tank, they tend to hang around the top and middle, keeping out of the Tetras’ way.

Bolivian Ram

Bolivian Ram, scientifically known as Mikrogeophagus altispinosus, is a peaceful and aesthetically-pleasing addition to your Lemon Tetra community tank. This South American native prefers pH neutral waters and a cozy temperature range.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 30 Gallons (113 Liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet and Feeding: Omnivore. Suggest a mix of flakes, pellets, and occasional live foods.
• Adult Size: 3 inches (7.5 cm)

Bolivian Rams add a vibrant touch with their gold-yellow body, red fins, and blue highlights. They perform best in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Bear in mind that they’ve some territorial tendencies, so ample space is essential.

Apistogramma Cichlid

The Apistogramma Cichlid is a small, colorful fish with a peaceful personality. Despite their timid nature, they get along with Lemon Tetras nicely. However, they prefer a highly decorated tank and can get territorial.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 25-30 gal (95-114 l)
• Temperature Range: 74-84°F (23-29°C)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Mildly aggressive
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, loves a variety of flake, freeze-dried, and live foods
• Adult Size: up to 3.5 in (9 cm)

Their vivid looks and tranquil behavior make them an excellent match for your Lemon Tetra tank. However, due to their slightly aggressive tendencies towards smaller fishes, always monitor their behavior.

Kuhli Loach

The Kuhli Loach is a fascinating tank mate for your Lemon Tetra. Its slender, eel-like body, nocturnal nature, and peaceful temperament make it an entertaining addition to your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-86°F (24-30°C)
• Care Level: Moderate. It’s important to provide hiding spots for this shy creature.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They are most active at night and won’t bother their tank mates.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They love sinking pellets, frozen or live foods.
• Adult Size: 4 inches (10 cm)

These fascinating loaches are worth considering for your Lemon Tetra tank. They bring a breath of fresh air to the underwater world, providing your fishes with a silent, nocturnal companion.

Rosy Tetra

Rosy Tetra, a delightful fish with a unique pink hue, makes any aquarium come alive with color. They’re peaceful, relatively easy to care for, making them a fantastic tank mate for your Lemon Tetra.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-81°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; readily accepts high-quality flake foods, frozen, and live foods
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

The Rosy Tetra’s tranquil personality allows it to thrive in a community setting without causing turmoil. Therefore, introducing them to your Lemon Tetra should be a breeze.

Emperor Tetra

One of the ultimate companions for your Lemon Tetra is undoubtedly the Emperor Tetra. A beautiful choice that adds a stunning touch to your aquarium, while also providing excellent companionship to your Lemon Tetra.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-82°F (23-28°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, will enjoy both flakes and brine shrimp.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm)

Elegant and easy to care for, Emperor Tetra harmonizes well with Lemon Tetras, given their similar temperaments. It’s important to maintain the water temperature and keep a balanced diet to ensure their overall health. This species could make your aquarium experience significantly more ‘royal’.

Glass Catfish

The Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) is a remarkable species known for their transparent bodies that offer a clear view of their internal organs.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20gal (75L)
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Feed them high-quality flakes or pellets, along with live or frozen food like brine shrimp.
• Adult Size: Up to 4in (10 cm)

Your Lemon Tetras will likely get along well with these fascinating fish. Just remember, Glass Catfish prefer to be in schools of 5 or more, and appreciate a calm, dimly lit environment, full of hiding spots. Their unique, crystalline appearance adds a spectacular diversity to your aquarium.

Conclusion

With this handy guide, navigating your way through the world of Lemon Tetra tank companionship should be a breeze, enabling you to provide the best environment for your aquatic friends. Remember, the selection of tank mates is crucial not only to diversifying your aquarium but also to ensuring the overall health and happiness of your fish community.

Now that you have sufficient knowledge about the topic, we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!