25 Pearl Danio Tank Mates

Choosing the perfect tank mates for your Pearl Danios requires a balance of several factors. Consider the temperaments, size, and dietary needs of the potential mates. It’s essential to ensure they share a similar habitat preference with your Danios.

by Fabian

Updated: August 9, 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.

Glass Catfish

Meet the Glass Catfish! It’s a stunning fish species that stands out in any aquarium; its clear, almost transparent body is simply fascinating.

• Compatibility: 4/5. They’re peaceful species, ideal for communities with Pearl Danios.
• Tank Size: At least 20 gallons (around 75 liters) for multiple fish.
• Temperature Range: A warm 72-80°F (or 22-27°C) suits them the best.
• Care Level: Moderate. They’re a bit sensitive to changes and require good quality water.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful. Though, they need their school of same-kind friends for true comfort.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They’ll accept flakes, live, and frozen foods.
• Adult Size: 4 inches (around 10 cm) long. Remember, they love some space to swim.

Always ensure that your tank environment matches each species’ needs to promote a more harmonious underwater community.

Otocinclus Catfish

Meet the diligent Otocinclus Catfish, known for their reputation as efficient tank cleaners. These small, peaceful fish make great companions for your Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5.
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum.
• Temperature Range: 70-78°F (21-26°C).
• Care Level: Moderate.
• Temperament: Peaceful.
• Diet & Feeding: Herbivorous – leaves and algae.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm).

Otocinclus are sociable creatures and thrive in groups of three or more. They are tolerant of different tank conditions and are non-aggressive. Though they keep to themselves most of the time, they participate in social swimming with other tank mates, including your Pearl Danios.

Honey Gourami

Honey Gourami is a peaceful, yet active freshwater fish species, making it an excellent companion for your Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful & Active
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, adaptable to flake, pellet foods, and live foods
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

With a beautiful honey-orange color, it adds a splash of vibrant hues to your aquarium. This adaptable omnivore has an easy care level, making it an excellent choice for novice and experienced aquarium hobbyists alike. Always make sure to provide them with a varied diet to keep them healthy and active.

Neon Tetra

Neon Tetra is known for its vibrant colors and peaceful demeanor, making it a great companion for your Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 5/5. These fish get along swimmingly in a community tank.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (37.85 liters). They need ample space to swim.
• Temperature Range: 70-81°F (21-27°C). They thrive in warmer waters.
• Care Level: Easy. Even novices can handle the care for Neon Tetras seamlessly.
• Temperament: Peaceful. These fish are far from aggressive.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. They consume both plant matter and small invertebrates.
• Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3.02 cm). They’re small, but their brilliant colors make them stand out.

Remember, if you treat these magnificent fish appropriately, you’ll see them flourish in the community with Pearl Danios.

Cherry Barb

The Cherry Barb, with its vibrant coloration and spirited demeanor, is a great companion for your Pearl Danio.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5. Cherry Barbs are generally peaceful and coexist well with Pearl Danios.
• Tank Size: 25 gallons (95 liters). These lively swimmers need ample space to move around.
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C). This warm water fish thrives in similar temperatures as Pearl Danios.
• Care Level: Easy. Cherry Barbs do not have unique demands that make them hard to keep.
• Temperament: Peaceful. Your Pearl Danios will feel safe with these non-aggressive fish.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They readily eat a variety of foods, aiding in their compatibility with Pearl Danios.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm). Their compact size ensures they do not threaten or intimidate your Pearl Danios.

Bristlenose Pleco

The Bristlenose Pleco is a peaceful, hardy, and versatile tank mate, making them perfect for your Pearl Danio aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters)
• Temperature Range: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: They are primarily herbivores, but will also accept a variety of foods including small crustaceans, spirulina, and sinking pellets.
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches (12.7 cm)

Bristlenose Plecos aren’t just good companions for your Pearl Danios, they also serve as excellent cleaners, efficiently eradicating algae from your aquarium. Their calm demeanor ensures the harmonious coexistence with all the other occupants of your tank.

Amano Shrimp

Amano Shrimp, hailed for their tank-cleaning talent, relish being with Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-78°F (21-26°C)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – enjoys algae, dead plant matter, and fish food leftovers.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Amano Shrimp pose no threat to Pearl Danios. They aren’t just convenient tank-mates but a great aid in maintaining a healthy aquarium. They love munching on detritus and algae, keeping your tank clutter-free.

Needing a moderate level of care, they’re not much of a hassle either. However, provide them with hiding spots due to their inclination toward a more reserved lifestyle.

Endler’s Livebearer

Endler’s Livebearer is a colorful and lively addition to any Pearl Danio tank. They share similar water parameters with Pearl Danios, making them a perfectly compatible tank mate. These charming fish are known for their vibrant colors and entertaining behavior.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (around 38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy. Regular water changes and balanced diet help them thrive.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They usually won’t disturb their tank mates.
• Diet & Feeding: Mostly omnivorous. Enjoy a diet of flake food, small live or frozen foods.
• Adult Size: Up to 1.8 inches (about 4.5 cm)

Endler’s Livebearer makes your aquarium more colorful and dynamic, offering a fantastic experience for both novice and seasoned aquarium owners.

Kuhli Loach

The Kuhli Loach is an exotic, worm-like fish, making it an interesting choice for a Pearl Danio-loving aquarium hobbyist. Bred in Asia’s tropical water bodies, they have an adaptable nature which aligns with the peaceful temperament of Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gals (76 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-86°F (23-30°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; bottom feeder, relishes flake and live foods.
• Adult Size: 3-4 in (7.5-10 cm)

The Kuhli Loach’s delicate nature requires a tank with a soft bottom. Its nocturnal habits graciously allow daytime center stage to the quick, playful Danios. Just ensure the tank has several hiding spots for your Kuhli Loach to retreat into for much-needed solitude.

Harlequin Rasbora

A favored companion for Pearl Danios is the Harlequin Rasbora. Exceptionally vibrant, these beautiful creatures provide energetic ambiance and are absolutely stunning within any tank set up. Their peaceful nature combines well with the danio’s active personality, creating a lively yet harmonious environment.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-82°F (23-28°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; can thrive with flakes, live, or frozen food
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

Whilst their small size is advantageous, bear in mind that they enjoy shoaling so numbers of six or more is recommended, thus they need a comfortably sized tank to thrive.

Rummy-Nose Tetra

Rummy-Nose Tetra is a fascinating species that harmonizes well with Pearl Danios. Its vibrant, trio-colored tail is certain to add a dash of visual flair to your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4/5 – Peaceful and social; does well with non-aggressive species
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters) – Prefers spacious environments
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C) – Tropical water species
• Care Level: Moderate – Requires a well-maintained aquarium
• Temperament: Peaceful – Tends to school with other tropical fish
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Enjoys variety including plant-based foods and protein pellets
• Adult Size: 2.75 in (7 cm) – Stays petite, won’t overcrowd your tank

Despite its minor care requirements, Rummy-Nose Tetra, with its vibrant tail and peaceful temperament, makes the perfect tank companion for your Pearl Danios.

Ghost Shrimp

Ghost Shrimp are a top choice for a Pearl Danio tank. They are peaceful creatures, and their clear bodies provide an interesting aesthetic.

• Compatibility: 4/5. Ghost Shrimp usually fit well with Pearl Danios.
• Tank Size: 10 gal (37.9 liters). Ghost Shrimp require a small amount of room to roam.
• Temperature Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C). This is a comfortable range for Ghost Shrimp.
• Care Level: Easy. Ghost Shrimp require minimal care, making them ideal for beginners.
• Temperament: Peaceful. Ghost Shrimp are typically non-aggressive.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Give them plant-based foods and small meaty foods like brine shrimp.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). They are small, which allows you to keep several in one tank.

Zebra Danio

Zebra Danios, known for their lively nature and distinctive horizontal stripes, are excellent tank mates for Pearl Danios. They can peacefully coexist, adding more dynamics and life to the aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4.5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 64-77°F (18-25°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, you can feed them both live food and flakes
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

Remember, Zebra Danios are not good suitors for a solitary lifestyle, they thrive in groups, so try to keep at least 5 in your aquarium. And always give them enough room for swimming as they love to dart around.

Black Neon Tetra

Black Neon Tetra is a peaceful, schooling fish that makes for a great companion for your Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5 – Ideal for a community tank due to their peaceful nature.
• Tank Size: 10 – 20 gallons (38 – 76 liters) – They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of room to swim.
• Temperature Range: 70 – 81°F (21 – 27°C) – Black Neon Tetras thrive in warmer conditions.
• Care Level: Easy – They’re hardy fish that can adapt to a variety of water conditions.
• Temperament: Peaceful – They typically avoid conflicts with other sea creatures.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – Black Neon Tetras eat a mix of flakes, live, and frozen foods.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm) – Despite their small size, they’ll surely add a splash of color to your aquarium.

Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras Catfish, frequently known as Cory Cats, rank among the friendliest fish types for sharing a tank with Pearl Danios. Known for their peaceful temperament and non-aggressive behavior, these fish maintain a comfortable coexistence with their tank mates.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (feed a mix of dry, frozen, and live food)
• Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6.35 cm)

The key to a well-balanced aquarium consists of choosing tank mates that won’t cause stress, and the Corydoras Catfish perfectly fits this criterion. Seriously consider this option when deciding on tank mates for your Pearl Danios.

White Cloud Mountain Minnow

White Cloud Mountain Minnow is a delightful partner for Pearl Danios. They share many features. For example, they are both peaceful and content with the living conditions.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 64-72°F (18–22°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed variety of flake, frozen, freeze-dried, and live foods.
• Adult Size: 1.5 in (3.8 cm)

Their vibrant colors and active nature will surely rule your aquarium. They’re hassle-free and simple to care for, making them ideal for a mixed-species tank.

Ember Tetra

Ember Tetra stands out in the aquatic world due to its strikingly fiery red-orange color that lights up any aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5/5 – Ember Tetra coexist peacefully with Pearl Danios.
• Tank Size: 10 gal (37.85 litre) – Plenty of space to dart around.
• Temperature Range: 73-84°F (22.7-28.8°C) – They thrive in conditions similar to their natural tropical habitats.
• Care Level: Easy – Enthusiasts appreciate their low-maintenance requirements.
• Temperament: Peaceful – Carrying a calm demeanor, they’re unlikely to cause disagreements in the tank.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – They are not picky eaters. Feed them with a combo of flakes, micro pellets, and frozen foods.
• Adult Size: 0.8 inch (2 cm) – Their small size fits well into community tanks.

Glowlight Tetra

The Glowlight Tetra, with an appearance that reflects its name, consists of a shimmering silvery-pink body hue with a bright neon orange-red line running from its snout to its tail.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum of 15 gallons (approx 68 liters)
• Temperature Range: 74° – 82°F (approx 23°- 28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive, making it perfect for community tanks
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Enjoy flakes, small pellets, and live foods
• Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches long (approx 4 cm)

Remember, Glowlights are schooling fish – so aim to keep a group of at least 5 together for their overall well-being.

Platy Fish

Platy fish captivate with their radiant, colorful scales and active nature. They’re wonderful Pearl Danio tank mates due to their friendly disposition.

• Compatibility: 5/5. They absolutely thrive in community tanks.
• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters) is recommended, however, bigger is always better to give plenty of swimming space.
• Temperature Range: They prefer warmer water between 70-77°F (21-25°C).
• Care Level: Low. They are hardy, adaptable, easy-to-care for species. Ideal for beginners.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They are lively explorers but don’t bully other residents.
• Diet & Feeding: Platy fish are omnivores. They enjoy a varied diet of live, flake, and frozen foods, including brine shrimp and bloodworms.
• Adult Size: They grow about 2.5 inches (6 cm) long. Small but brightly hued, they provide a vibrant touch to your aquarium.

Sparkling Gourami

Sparkling Gouramis, also known as Pygmy Gouramis, are a gentle and beautiful addition to your Pearl Danios’ tank. They are tranquil fish, famed for their exquisite colors and peaceful nature. The compatibility between Pearl Danios and Sparkling Gouramis makes them a fitting choice for communal tanks.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (37.9 liters)
• Temperature Range: 77-82°F (25-27.8°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous (enjoys both plants and small insects)
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

Sparkling Gouramis are impressive tank mates for your pearl danio. They require similar conditions, making it easier for you to manage. Pair them wisely with other peaceful species, and your aquarium will thrive beautifully. Remember, before introducing any new species, research abundantly and make educated choices.

Molly Fish

Molly fish are vivacious swimmers known for their striking colors and readiness to breed. Their adaptable nature makes them an excellent choice for a Pearl Danio tankmate.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: 20-30 gal (75-115 L)
• Temperature Range: 70-82°F (21-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – quality flake or pellet foods, plus occasional treats of live or frozen brine shrimp or bloodworms
• Adult Size: up to 4.5 inches (11.4cm)

Remember, though these friendly companions are easy to care for, they do enjoy some vegetation in their habitat, providing a more natural environment. So, garnish their tank with a few aquatic plants.

Cardinal Tetra

Behold the Cardinal Tetra, a stunning addition to your Pearl Danio community. These great companions are known for their striking blue and red colors. They are peaceful fish who will blend nicely with your Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (21-27°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Enjoy a diet of flake foods, small granules, and freeze-dried bloodworms.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

Remember, the Cardinal Tetra thrives best in a well-planted tank with low lighting. It is suitable as tank mate with Pearl Danios if you maintain good water quality and provide plenty of horizontal swimming space.

Swordtail Fish

Congratulations on considering Swordtail Fish as potential tank mates for your Pearl Danios.

• Compatibility: 4/5. Swordtails are peaceful fish, they can live harmoniously with Pearl Danios.
• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (113 liters) to allow them room to swim and socialize.
• Temperature Range: They thrive between 65-82°F (18-28°C).
• Care Level: Easy. They’re hardy fish and great for beginners.
• Temperament: Peaceful but active, they blend well in community tanks.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. They feed on algae, small insects, plant matter, and standard flake or pellet foods.
• Adult Size: They can grow up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) long.

Remember, careful acclimation is necessary when introducing any new species to your aquarium.

Dwarf Gourami

The Dwarf Gourami is a vibrant, peaceful species that pairs quite well with pearl danios. They bring a pop of color, often in a striking combination of red and blue, to your aquarium community.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5. They are community fish, but do best in a calm environment.
• Tank Size: 10 gal minimum (around 38 liters). They prefer slow-flowing streams or densely planted tanks.
• Temperature Range: 72 to 82°F (22 to 28°C).
• Care Level: Easy. Ideal for beginners.
• Temperament: Largely peaceful. Can display territorial behavior occasionally.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Accepts most fish foods but will appreciate occasional live or frozen treats.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.

This makes the Dwarf Gourami a fantastic and suitable companion for pearl danios in your aqua haven.

Dwarf Chain Loach

The Dwarf Chain Loach is a compatible and inviting companion for your Pearl Danios.

Botia Sidthimunki – Photo by Inge Knoff CC BY-NC 2.0

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful but active
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Enjoy bottom-dwelling pellets, flakes, live and frozen foods.
• Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6 cm)

Thriving in a tank outfitted with hiding spots and rocky terrain, they add an engaging dash of energy. Benefiting from companionship, they should ideally be kept in small groups.

Mild-natured, the Dwarf Chain Loach is unlikely to stir conflict, making it an excellent choice to buddy up with your Pearl Danios. So, if you want to bring a mini rush of activity into your aquarium, this loach could be the perfect match.

Conclusion

You’ve just explored 25 excellent tank mates for your Pearl Danios. It’s clear they can share their home with plenty of other peaceful, small fishes and even a few invertebrates. Tell us about your experiences or any other tank mates you’ve had for Pearl Danios in the comments below.