25 Best Neon Tetra Tank Mates
Neon Tetras are popular, vibrant fish that liven up any aquarium. To maintain a healthy environment, picking suitable tank mates is crucial. Let’s explore the 25 best Neon Tetra tank mates for harmonious aquatic life.
Guppy Fish
Guppy Fish, also known as Poecilia reticulata, are some of the most popular freshwater fish for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. They make great tank mates for Neon Tetras, thanks to their peaceful nature and simple requirements. Guppy Fish add beauty and variety to the aquarium, coming in a range of colors and patterns.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, eat flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: up to 2.4 inches (6cm)
With a few plants and hiding spots, Guppies will happily coexist with Neon Tetras, encouraging a lively yet serene tank environment.
Zebra Danio
Zebra Danios, known scientifically as Danio rerio, are small, active fish that are well-suited for sharing a tank with Neon Tetras. They easily adapt to varied water conditions and habitats, making them perfect tank mates for other peaceful, community fish.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, consume flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: up to 2 inches (5cm)
Zebra Danios have distinctive horizontal stripes and come in various colors, adding visual interest to your aquarium. Providing ample space to swim and schools of at least six will reduce the likelihood of them bothering the lovely Neon Tetras in your tank.
Rummy Nose Tetra
Rummy Nose Tetras, also known as Hemigrammus rhodostomus, are attractive and peaceful fish that make ideal tank mates for Neon Tetras. They are easily recognized by their red noses and distinct black-and-white striped tails.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20gal (76L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefers flakes, pellets, and live foods
- Adult Size: up to 2 inches (5cm)
Like Neon Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras prefer to swim in schools of at least six. They also enjoy planted aquariums with plenty of swim space. Ensure stable water parameters, as Rummy Nose Tetras are sensitive to sudden changes. With proper care, Rummy Nose Tetras and Neon Tetras will create a harmonious, vibrant community.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras Catfish, or Corydoras sp., are a friendly bottom-dwelling species that make excellent tank mates for Neon Tetras. This diverse group of fish comes in various sizes and patterns, offering a beautiful contrast in the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20gal (76L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, social
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy sinking pellets, live, and frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1-4 inches (2.5-10cm), depending on species
Corydoras Catfish, with their armored bodies and whisker-like barbels, make wonderful additions to a Neon Tetra tank. They prefer a sandy substrate and a group of at least four. These catfish are efficient cleaners and will scavenge for leftover food, keeping the tank floor spotless without disturbing their vibrant tank mates.
Angelfish
Angelfish, or Pterophyllum scalare, are graceful, eye-catching fish that can coexist with Neon Tetras if given proper care and attention. These cichlids are known for their distinct triangular bodies and flowing fins.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30gal (114L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefer flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 6 inches (15cm), with fins reaching up to 8 inches (20cm)
When introducing Angelfish to a Neon Tetra tank, consider their size difference and appetite for smaller fish. Adding the Angelfish as juveniles can improve the chances of peaceful coexistence.
It is crucial to provide ample space and hiding spots for the Neon Tetras, as Angelfish can become territorial, especially during breeding. Monitoring your aquarium closely will ensure harmonious living conditions for both species.
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos, or Ancistrus sp., are attractive bottom-dwelling fish that make compatible tank mates for Neon Tetras. They are smaller than their common Pleco cousins, making them more suitable for community tanks.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30gal (114L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Herbivore, prefer sinking pellets, fresh vegetables, and algae
- Adult Size: up to 6 inches (15cm)
Bristlenose Plecos are known for their unique bristle-like appendages on their snouts. They are excellent at controlling algae growth and maintaining cleanliness in the tank without interrupting their colorful companions.
Provide hiding spots for Bristlenose Plecos, such as driftwood and caves, which will also satisfy their chewing needs. These characteristics make them perfect fellow residents in a Neon Tetra aquarium.
Harlequin Rasbora
Harlequin Rasboras, or Trigonostigma heteromorpha, are visually striking fish that make excellent Neon Tetra tank mates. Their peaceful demeanor and stunning color patterns add elegance to any aquarium.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 2 inches (5cm)
Harlequin Rasboras are characterized by their silver-blue body contrasted with a black triangle shape near their tail. Preferring to swim in schools of at least six, these colorful fish enjoy densely planted tanks with ample hiding spots. Their compatibility and preferred environment make them a perfect match for a vibrant and harmonious Neon Tetra tank.
Galaxy Rasbora
Galaxy Rasboras, also known as Celestichthys margaritatus or Celestial Pearl Danios, are small, brilliantly colored fish that can share a tank with Neon Tetras. Their celestial-looking pattern adds to the aquarium’s beauty.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, require a mix of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 1 inch (2.5cm)
These tiny fish prefer a planted tank with hiding spots and calm water. Although they are peaceful, their small size makes them vulnerable to aggressive or larger tank mates.
To ensure harmony between Galaxy Rasboras and Neon Tetras, maintain a school of at least six Rasboras and monitor the tank for any signs of stress. A compatible environment will result in a dazzling aquatic display.
Platy Fish
Platy Fish, known scientifically as Xiphophorus maculatus, are lively, colorful fish that can live harmoniously with Neon Tetras. They are hardy and peaceful, perfect for brightening up community tanks.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 3 inches (7.5cm)
Platy Fish come in a wide range of colors and patterns, adding visual interest to your aquarium. They are adaptable to various water conditions and thrive in planted tanks with hiding spots and open swim areas. While Platies can breed quickly, their peaceful nature, hardiness, and compatible requirements make them suitable tank mates for a vibrant Neon Tetra community.
Molly Fish
Molly Fish, or Poecilia sphenops, are active, adaptable fish that can coexist peacefully with Neon Tetras. They are a popular choice for community tanks due to their striking appearance and engaging behavior.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20gal (76L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, eat flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 4 inches (10cm)
Molly Fish are available in various colors and hybrid forms, bringing a unique vibrancy to the tank. They appreciate well-decorated environments with hiding spots and plants, similar to the preferences of Neon Tetras.
Although Mollies can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, it is essential to monitor the tank’s temperature and water quality for a successful, colorful community.
Swordtail Fish
Swordtail Fish, known as Xiphophorus helleri, are lively and eye-catching fish that can successfully live alongside Neon Tetras. Their distinct elongated tail fin, resembling a sword, adds a unique flair to the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 15gal (57L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefer flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 4 inches (10cm) without the tail fin
Swordtail Fish are active swimmers that come in various colors, enhancing the tank’s visual appeal. They are adaptable to different water conditions and appreciate planted tanks with open swim spaces and hiding spots. Their peaceful nature and similar environmental preferences make them compatible tank mates for a vibrant Neon Tetra aquarium.
Honey Gourami
Honey Gouramis, or Trichogaster chuna, are gentle, attractive fish that can share an aquarium with Neon Tetras. Their warm honey-gold coloration combined with their calm temperament makes them an ideal tank mate.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy small pellets, flake food, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 2 inches (5cm)
Honey Gouramis excel in densely planted tanks with floating plants, offering them shelter and security when they feel stressed or threatened. Given their gentle nature, it is crucial to avoid introducing aggressive fish into the tank. A calm environment with suitable hiding spots and tank mates allows Honey Gouramis and Neon Tetras to thrive together.
Kuhli Loach
Kuhli Loaches, or Pangio kuhlii, are fascinating bottom-dwelling fish that can coexist well with Neon Tetras. Their elongated, eel-like shape and unique banded coloration make them an intriguing addition to the tank.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20gal (76L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, eat sinking pellets, live or frozen foods, and scavenged leftovers
- Adult Size: up to 4 inches (10cm)
Kuhli Loaches are nocturnal and appreciate a substrate that allows them to burrow, like sand or fine gravel. They also prefer tanks with plenty of hiding spots, such as driftwood and caves. Their non-aggressive behavior and compatibility with the Neon Tetra’s environmental preferences create a delightful aquarium community.
Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus Catfish, or Otocinclus sp., are small, peaceful algae eaters that make fantastic tank mates for Neon Tetras. Their efficient cleaning abilities can help keep your aquarium spotless.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20gal (76L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Herbivore, primarily consume algae and require supplemental vegetables
- Adult Size: up to 2 inches (5cm)
Otocinclus Catfish are often referred to as “Otos” and are appreciated for their hardworking nature. They prefer well-oxygenated water with a moderate current, thriving in tanks with plants and decorations to graze on. Their gentle temperament, small size, and similar environmental requirements make Otocinclus Catfish an excellent cleanup crew for a Neon Tetra tank.
Discus Fish
Discus Fish, or Symphysodon sp., are stunning cichlids that can share a tank with Neon Tetras under specific conditions. Hailing from the Amazon, they are known for their unique disc-shaped bodies and vibrant colors.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 55gal (208L) minimum
- Care Level: Difficult
- Temperament: Peaceful, but shy
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivore, prefer meaty foods like bloodworms and beef heart
- Adult Size: up to 8 inches (20cm)
Discus Fish require warm, stable water conditions, and a low-stress environment. While they are not aggressive, their sizable bodies and specific care needs mean that tank mates must be chosen carefully.
Introducing Discus Fish and Neon Tetras when they are both juveniles can improve compatibility and help them establish a peaceful living balance. Proper planning and attentive care will create a brilliant underwater display.
Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal Tetras, or Paracheirodon axelrodi, are attractive schooling fish that can peacefully coexist with Neon Tetras. Their striking blue and red stripes make them a popular choice for community tanks.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefer flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 2 inches (5cm)
Similar to their Neon Tetra counterparts, Cardinal Tetras enjoy swimming with at least six members of their species in a planted tank with plenty of swim space. Carefully acclimating the Cardinal Tetras to the tank and monitoring water conditions is crucial, as they can be sensitive to changes. A properly maintained environment will result in a vibrant and harmonious aquarium community.
Black Neon Tetra
Black Neon Tetras, or Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi, are small, eye-catching fish that make ideal tank mates for Neon Tetras. Their iridescent black and silver stripes add variety to your aquarium’s appearance.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 1.5 inches (4cm)
Black Neon Tetras prefer swimming with a school of at least six in a well-planted tank, much like their Neon Tetra counterparts. They typically occupy the middle to top layers of the aquarium, providing a harmonious balance with bottom-dwelling species. Their peaceful nature and similar preferences make Black Neon Tetras a perfect addition to a Neon Tetra aquarium.
Pearl Gourami
Pearl Gouramis, or Trichopodus leerii, are elegant, peaceful fish that can coexist with Neon Tetras. Their beautiful pearl-like spots and unique body shape create a visually stunning addition to any tank.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30gal (114L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, potentially territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, prefer flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 5 inches (12cm)
Pearl Gouramis appreciate aquariums with plenty of plants and hiding spots, as they enjoy retreating to quiet areas when stressed. Males can become territorial during breeding, so remaining vigilant during this time is crucial. Providing them with ample space and compatible tank mates ensures a successful, vibrant community with Neon Tetras.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gouramis, or Trichogaster lalius, are small and peaceful fish that can live harmoniously with Neon Tetras. Their striking colors and patterns add to the overall attractiveness of the tank.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, eat flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 3.5 inches (9cm)
Dwarf Gouramis appreciate tanks with plenty of plants and hiding spots, thriving in an environment similar to Neon Tetras. Keep in mind that while they are generally peaceful, they might become slightly territorial when competing for food or territory. A carefully monitored tank with ample space, hiding spots, and compatible tank mates will result in a lively and harmonious aquarium community.
Bolivian Ram
Bolivian Rams, or Mikrogeophagus altispinosus, are small, peaceful cichlids that can make suitable tank mates for Neon Tetras. Their attractive colors and interesting behavior make them a welcome addition to any community tank.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20gal (76L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, mildly territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 3 inches (7.5cm)
Bolivian Rams prefer a well-decorated tank with hiding spots, providing them with a sense of security. Though generally peaceful, they might become territorial during breeding. Accounting for this behavior by providing ample space and monitoring the tank will ensure a harmonious living environment for Bolivian Rams and Neon Tetras alike.
Cherry Barb
Cherry Barbs, or Puntius titteya, are small, peaceful fish with a vibrant red color that nicely complements Neon Tetras. Adding them to your tank creates an appealing display of colors.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20gal (76L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, eat flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 2 inches (5cm)
Cherry Barbs enjoy swimming in schools of at least six and thrive in densely planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Their ideal conditions align with Neon Tetras, making them well-suited tank mates. Providing a compatible environment will result in a harmonious and visually stunning aquarium community.
Golden Barb
Golden Barbs, or Barbodes semifasciolatus var. Schuberti, are striking fish known for their bright gold coloration and peaceful nature. They can make excellent tank mates for Neon Tetras, adding even more color to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20gal (76L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 3 inches (7.5cm)
Golden Barbs prefer swimming in schools of at least six and do best in planted tanks with hiding spots, similar to Neon Tetras. Their peaceful, social nature and compatible environment preferences make Golden Barbs a great addition to a vibrant and harmonious aquarium.
Sparkling Gourami
Sparkling Gouramis, or Trichopsis pumila, are charming, small fish with mesmerizing iridescent spots. Their peaceful temperament allows them to share a tank with Neon Tetras beautifully.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, slightly territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 1.5 inches (4cm)
Sparkling Gouramis appreciate well-planted tanks with floating plants for cover, much like their larger Gourami relatives. They can establish territories, so providing ample swimming space and hiding spots is crucial. With care taken to address their unique needs, Sparkling Gouramis and Neon Tetras can coexist harmoniously, creating a visually stunning aquarium.
White Cloud Minnow
White Cloud Minnows, or Tanichthys albonubes, are hardy, peaceful fish that make excellent tank mates for Neon Tetras. Their subtle colors and active nature create an engaging display in the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 10gal (38L) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: up to 1.5 inches (4cm)
White Cloud Minnows prefer swimming in schools of at least six and thrive in planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. As they are adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, their ideal environment is compatible with that of Neon Tetras. The combination of these peaceful fish creates a visually diverse and harmonious community.
Siamese Algae Eater
Siamese Algae Eaters, or Crossocheilus oblongus, are an excellent addition to a Neon Tetra tank. Their peaceful demeanor and appetite for algae make them a helpful and compatible tank mate.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30gal (114L) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Algae and plant matter; supplemental vegetables and flakes
- Adult Size: up to 6 inches (15cm)
Siamese Algae Eaters are energetic fish that require a roomy tank with hiding spots and a moderate water flow. They are particularly skilled at controlling problematic algae, such as beard and black brush algae. Their gentle nature and algae-consuming abilities make Siamese Algae Eaters an ideal tank mate for a Neon Tetra tank, creating a well-balanced and clean aquarium.
Conclusion
These 25 best Neon Tetra tank mates ensure a healthy, vibrant aquarium ecosystem. Choose your fish wisely, and enjoy the mesmerizing underwater world you’ve created. If you have any thoughts or suggestions, feel free to leave a comment below!
