25 Zebra Loach Tank Mates
When choosing tank mates for your Zebra Loaches, consider their peaceful nature. Look for fish that won’t compete with them for food. Lastly, ensure the chosen fish can thrive in similar water conditions. All these factors will contribute to a harmonious aquarium environment.
Neon Tetra
Neon Tetras stand out with their vivid blue and red coloration. These small species originate from South American rivers and are staple favorites in most community tanks.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Temperature Range: 70 – 81°F (21 – 27°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; fine with high-quality Tetra flakes and occasional live/frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)
Neon Tetras are great as Zebra Loach tank mates since these two are both peaceful and favor the same environmental conditions. They, however, occupy different tank zones with Tetras being mid-level swimmers and Loaches sticking to the bottom, which makes them compatible.
Cardinal Tetra
The Cardinal Tetra is another excellent tank mate for your Zebra Loaches. This fish is peaceful by nature, making them an ideal cohabitant.
- Compatibility: 5/5. Being peaceful and schooling fish, they gel well with Zebra Loaches.
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gal (75.7 liters) for a school of them.
- Temperature Range: 73°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C).
- Care Level: Easy. They don’t require special care beyond a well-maintained tank.
- Temperament: Peaceful. They can easily coexist with Zebra Loaches.
- Diet & Feeding: They are omnivorous. Feed them high-quality flake foods, small live or frozen foods.
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm). The small size makes them a perfect community tank dweller.
Harlequin Rasbora
The Harlequin Rasbora is a lovely fish species known for its vibrant colors and outgoing nature. This species makes a perfect tank mate for your zebra loach.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-81°F (22-27°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, appreciates a varied diet including dry, live, and frozen food
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Harlequin Rasboras are schooling fish, preferring a group of at least six. They appreciate a planted tank, mimicking their natural habitat. Just like Zebra Loaches, they relish a peaceful environment, making them an ideal tank companion. Their care level is relatively low, making it suitable for hobbyists of all expertise levels.
Ember Tetra
Ember Tetras are wonderful companions for your Zebra Loaches.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5. Embers are peace-loving and perfect for community tanks.
- Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum. They need room to school.
- Temperature Range: 73-84°F (23-29°C). They prefer warm tropical environments.
- Care Level: Easy. An excellent choice for beginners.
- Temperament: Peaceful. They get along well with others.
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. Provide a balanced diet of flakes, granules, and occasional live food.
- Adult Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm). As small fish, they are not threatening to any of their tank mates.
Ember Tetras bring bright color to your aquarium and harmoniously coexist with your Zebra Loaches.
Black Neon Tetra
Black Neon Tetras are a stunning, underrated tank mate for Zebra Loaches. They’re noted for their iridescent blue line running down their bodies, contrasting beautifully with a black line below it.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 68-78 °F (20-26 °C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They enjoy flake food, as well as freeze-dried or live brine shrimp.
- Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
They are schooling fish, so it’s best to have a group of at least six. Plus, they’re easy to care for, making them a perfect candidate for cohabitation with your Zebra Loaches.
Rummy Nose Tetra
The Rummy Nose Tetra is a fascinating, vibrant pet that can add color to your aquarium. Here’s what you need to know about caring for this brightly adorned creature:
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: Minimum of 20 Gal (75 Liters)
- Temperature Range: 75–81°F (24–27°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivores, they appreciate a mix of flakes, pellets, and small live foods
- Adult Size: 2.5 Inches (6.35 cm)
Rummy Nose Tetras have strong compatibility with Zebra Loaches given their similar water requirements and peaceful nature. Though, they need a tank with hiding spots to thrive. Care and feeding require a moderate level of attention but its pleasing aesthetics make it worth the effort.
Being Omnivores, they eat a variety of food, making diet planning easy. Keep in mind their small adult size when planning your aquarium.
Cherry Barb
Cherry Barbs are the vibrant touch your Zebra Loach aquarium needs. These small and peaceful fish are perfect playmates for your loaches.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gal (113 liters)
- Temperature Range: 70–81°F (21–27°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, they appreciate both plant-based food and small invertebrates
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Keep an eye on your Cherry Barbs, though: they love to shoal, so make sure to add a few to your tank. In groups, they display interesting behaviors that will make your aquarium feel even more alive.
Pearl Gourami
Also known as the Lace Gourami, the Pearl Gourami is an elegant, peaceful, and timid species, making it a good tank mate for your Zebra Loach.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: minimum of 30 gallons (113.5 liters)
- Temperature Range: 77 – 86°F (25 – 30°C)
- Care Level: Moderate – they require a well-maintained tank with optimal water parameters.
- Temperament: Quite docile by nature, but they can be shy and require hiding spots.
- Diet & Feeding: They have a wide diet, and you can feed them with flakes, pellets, freeze-dried, or live foods.
- Adult Size: They can reach up to 4.7 inches (12 cm) in length.
Consequently, their peaceful temperament and manageable size make them compatible tank mates with your Zebra Loaches.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras Catfish, often referred to as “Corys,” make excellent tank mates for the feisty Zebra Loach.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 70-78°F (21-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, will happily eat flake food, algae wafers, and frozen or live foods.
- Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm)
These small bottom-dwelling fish get along with most others and greatly appreciate places to hide. Their diverse diet, combined with their peaceable behavior, makes them compatible with Zebra Loaches. Do remember though, those Corys require moderate care and clean water conditions to thrive.
Siamese Algae Eater
The Siamese Algae Eater is one of the more popular tank mates for Zebra Loaches. This fish species isn’t just compatible but also shares similar tank conditions with the Zebra Loach. Both species love playing in moderate currents and also enjoy a diet of algae. Here’s a quick overview of the Siamese Algae Eater.
- Compatibility: 4.5 out of 5
- Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gal (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 75-79°F (24-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Enjoys a diet of algae, veggies, and occasional protein.
- Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm)
When you’re considering Zebra Loach tank mates, including the Siamese Algae Eater might just be the perfect fit.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gourami is a popular, vibrant-colored loach tank mate. This small, peaceful fish thrives in a community tank and will not compete with Zebra Loaches.
- Compatibility: 4/5 – They are peaceful and tolerate other species well.
- Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters) – Small tank can sufficiently support their life.
- Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C) – It prefers a tropical water condition.
- Care Level: Moderate – Not too difficult to maintain but it requires specific care.
- Temperament: Peaceful – Unlike aggressive species, Dwarf Gourami are serene.
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – It eats both plants and small animals.
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm) – A perfect size not to intimidate Zebra Loaches. Owning these friendly fish can enhance your tank environment. Make sure to provide the optimal condition for them to thrive.
Honey Gourami
The Honey Gourami is a peaceful and visually appealing fish that effortlessly blends with Zebra Loaches. Being capable of thriving in similar water conditions also adds to the amicability between the two.
- Compatibility: 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 small insects, larvae, zooplankton and plant matter. Regular feeding times encourage social behavior.
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
With an easygoing temperament and simple care requirements, Honey Gouramis are no-brainer tank mates for your Zebra Loaches. Just maintain a balanced diet and provide a friendly tank environment and you’ll witness a bubbling aquatic companionship!
Otocinclus Catfish
The Otocinclus Catfish is perfect for cohabitation with your Zebra Loach. It has a variety of admirable characteristics:
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 70-78°F (21-25°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, regular feedings
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
This fish species are known to be peace-loving and shy, guaranteeing harmony in your tank. Their moderate care level may require a bit of duteous nurturing but it’s worth the extra effort.
Otocinclus catfish enjoy diverse diets including algae, shrimps, and pellets, and their compact adult size fosters compatibility with Zebra Loaches. Choose Otocinclus Catfish as a compatible and convenient mate.
Bristlenose Pleco
The Bristlenose Pleco, known for its unique bristles and small size, is an excellent tank mate for Zebra Loaches.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20-30 gallons (76-114 liters)
- Temperature Range: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Primarily herbivore, supplement diet with vegetables and algae-based foods
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Bristlenose plecos are hardy, easy-to-care-for species, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Their peaceful temperaments ensure a serene tank environment.
Their diet of algae and vegetables aids in maintaining tank cleanliness, contributing to a harmonious living space for all inhabitants. Always remember, a balanced diet and clean environment offer the best chance for Bristlenose plecos to thrive.
Molly Fish
Molly fish are excellent companions for your Zebra Loaches. Offering a lively, fun personality, they help add sparkle to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 70-82°F (21-27.7°C)
- Care Level: Easy. They are adaptable and hardy, making them suitable for beginners
- Temperament: Peaceful. They get along well with Zebra Loaches and other tank mates
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They enjoy a varied diet of flake food, freeze-dried food, and occasional fresh vegetables
- Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm). Remember, the larger the fish, the larger the tank required to support its size and activity level.
In conclusion, Molly fish are a splendid addition to a Zebra Loach tank setup due to their peaceful nature and vibrant display.
Platy Fish
Platy fish make great tank mates for zebra loaches. These colorful and peaceful fishes fit well in community aquariums.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5. They coexist peacefully with zebra loaches.
- Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters). Bigger is always better.
- Temperature Range: 70-80°F (21-27°C). Make sure to keep stability.
- Care Level: Easy. Ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
- Temperament: Peaceful. Perfect match for the gentle nature of zebra loaches.
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Provide a diverse diet of both plant and meat-based foods.
- Adult Size: 1.5-2.5 inches (4-6 cm). They won’t intimidate or harass your zebra loaches.
Platy fish are perfect for adding a pop of color to your tank while also being compatible with your zebra loaches.
Swordtail Fish
Swordtail fish are vibrant and lively fish that can be excellent tank mates for Zebra Loaches. They are known for their peaceful temperament which doesn’t disturb the harmony of a community tank.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5. Swordtails generally get along well with Zebra Loaches.
- Tank Size: Needs at least a 20-gallon (75 liters) tank.
- Temperature Range: Prefers warmer water, ideally between 72-78°F (22-26°C).
- Care Level: Easy. They are hardy fish, making them suitable for beginners.
- Temperament: Mostly peaceful. Males may display minor aggression.
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Feed them flake food, freeze-dried food, and occasional fresh food.
- Adult Size: They can grow up to 5.5 inches (14 cm). Remember the size can influence their compatibility with other species.
Kuhli Loach
Kuhli Loach is a unique-looking species that makes a great tank mate for Zebra Loaches. With an eel-like body shape, they add an interesting flair to the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 75-86 degrees F (24-30 degrees C)
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Temperament: Docile and Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feeding on insects, plant matter, and small crustaceans
- Adult Size: 4 inches long (approx. 10 cm)
The Kuhli Loach prefers to hide during the day, making it an interesting nocturnal addition to your tank. Always consider providing ample hiding spots for these loaches to thrive. It’s also crucial to ensure your aquarium is securely covered as they are known to be skilled jumpers.
Bolivian Ram
The Bolivian Ram is a peaceful species that adds vibrant color to any tank. Here’s some key info about these lovely fish:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 liters)
- Temperature Range: 75-84 F (24-29° C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; they enjoy both plants and small crustaceans
- Adult Size: 3 in (8 cm)
Remember, your Bolivian Ram needs a balanced diet to stay healthy. Regular feeding with a variety of foods ensures your Bolivian Ram flourishes.
Be careful with water conditions; maintaining a stable temperature is crucial for their well-being. If the water isn’t warm enough, it can stress the fish and lead to illnesses.
Discus Fish
Discus Fish is a memorable and stunning choice for a Zebra Loach tank mate. These vibrantly colored fish are truly a spectacle in any aquarium setting. However, it’s vital to note that they require exceptional care, often considered not suitable for beginners.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 50 gallons (189 liters)
- Temperature Range: 82-86°F (28-30°C)
- Care Level: High
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous – they thrive on a diet of meat-based foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Adult Size: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
Your Zebra Loaches will get along well with Discus Fish, provided the conditions are optimal to ensure they coexist harmoniously.
Angelfish
A stunning addition to your aquarium would be the Angelfish. Despite their somewhat imposing appearance, Angelfish are quite peaceful, making them excellent tank mates for your Zebra Loaches.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (113 liters)
- Temperature Range: 78-84°F (25-29°C)
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – they appreciate a variety of both plant-based and meaty foods.
- Adult Size: up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Remember, while their larger size can be intimidating to some smaller fish, the Zebra Loach’s quick agility can help it avoid any possible aggression. It’s a balance that will keep your tank lively and interesting.
Clown Pleco
Clown Plecos are one of the smaller Pleco species, making them a potential companion for Zebra Loaches. These fish are a delightful addition to your tank due to their unique patterns and colors. Happy in a variety of tank setups, ensure that they have room to explore and places to hide.
- Compatibility: 3/5. They can be territorial, so ensure there’s space to claim.
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters). A smaller tank can limit their comfort and growth.
- Temperature Range: 72-86°F (22-30°C). Warm temperatures keep them healthy.
- Care Level: Moderate. They require regular monitoring and a well-maintained tank.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive. Expect some territorial disputes.
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. They enjoy a mix of fresh vegetables and fish pellets.
- Adult Size: 3.5-4 inches (8.9-10.2 cm). Despite their small size, they need space to thrive.
Lemon Tetra
Lemon Tetra, with a beautiful translucent yellow body and silver accents, can be an interesting addition to your Loach tank. The subtly hued and friendly fish get along well with Zebra Loaches and offer a colorful contrast.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-81°F (22-27°C)
- Care Level: Easy. They are not very demanding and adjust well to varied conditions.
- Temperament: Peaceful. They prefer living in groups and do not present a threat to Zebra Loaches.
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Feeds on small pellets, flakes, live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworm.
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (cm to mm). A small but vibrant part of any aquatic set-up.
Tiger Barb
Tiger barbs are vibrant schooling fishes that can add a burst of color and energy to your tank. Their blunt noses and striped bodies lend them a unique appearance that can be a great addition to a zebra loach community.
- Compatibility: 3/5. Tiger barbs can nip at slow-moving or long-finned fish but get along fine with quick, short-finned tank mates like zebra loaches.
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gal (76 liters). They need plenty of swimming space.
- Temperature Range: 74-79°F (23-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy. They can adapt to a variety of water conditions.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive. They can be nippy if not in a large enough school.
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They eat flake, fresh, and live foods.
- Adult Size: 2-3in (5-7cm) in length. Remember, they are schooling fish and you need several.
Rosy Barb
The Rosy Barb is a vibrant species that can add color to your Zebra Loach tank. Distinguished by its pink-red hue, this active fish is known for its peaceful temperament.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 l)
- Temperature Range: 64-72°F (18-22°C)
- Care Level: Easy; it’s a hardy species, tolerant of a wide range of conditions.
- Temperament: These active swimmers are generally peaceful but can occasionally nip fins.
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; feed them a mixture of plant-based food and small live invertebrates.
- Adult Size: They grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long; so, they need ample swimming space.
Housing these with Zebra Loaches facilitates a dynamic view in your tank due to their contrasting colors and swimming patterns.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect tank mates for your Zebra Loach can significantly influence its mood, behavior, and overall well-being. With the 25 options mentioned here, you can create a vibrant, harmonious, and active aquarium environment. What about sharing your experiences? Leave a comment and let us know which tank mates worked best for your Zebra Loach.