What Makes a Good Tetra Tank Mate
Tetras are peaceful, small shoaling fish, so the best tank mates are other calm species that won’t outcompete them for food, nip at their fins, or see them as a snack. Choosing the right combination of tank mates makes all the difference to how settled and colourful your shoal looks day to day, so it’s worth thinking about adult size, temperament and the water conditions each species needs before adding anything new.
Good Tank Mates for Tetras
Corydoras are one of the most popular choices, as they occupy the bottom of the tank and share similar water requirements to most tetra species. Small livebearers, dwarf gouramis and other peaceful tetra species also make excellent companions, and mixing different tetra species together, such as neon, cardinal and rummy nose tetras, can create a colourful, naturally shoaling community without any territorial conflict. Our guide to choosing the right tetra fish for your community tank compares the most popular species in detail. Shrimp and snails can also work well alongside tetras, though very small shrimp may occasionally be seen as food by larger tetra species.
Fish to Avoid Keeping With Tetras
Avoid larger, boisterous or fin-nipping fish, as these can stress a tetra shoal and lead to torn fins or fish hiding away rather than shoaling naturally. Very large or predatory species may also see small tetras as a meal, so it’s worth checking the adult size and temperament of any fish before adding it to a tetra tank.
Stocking Levels and Tank Size
Whatever combination you choose, make sure your tank is large enough to support the total number of fish comfortably, with stable, well-cycled water before adding a mixed community. Our guide to how many fish you can keep in your tank can help you plan safe stocking levels, and our guide on how to set up a tropical fish tank is worth a read if you’re starting from scratch. Browse our full range of tetra fish to plan your shoal.
Tetra Tank Mate FAQs
Can different tetra species be kept together?
Yes, mixing species such as neon, cardinal and rummy nose tetras works well and can create a varied, colourful community shoal.
Do shrimp make good tank mates for tetras?
Generally yes, though very small shrimp may occasionally be eaten by larger tetra species, so adult shrimp in a well-planted tank tend to do best.
What fish should I avoid keeping with tetras?
Avoid large, boisterous or fin-nipping species, as these can stress a tetra shoal or see them as prey.