Do Dwarf Gouramis eat Neon Tetras?

An adult Dwarf Gourami is too large to swallow a tetra, but harassment can cause stress-related losses rather than direct predation.

How many Neon Tetras should I keep with a Dwarf Gourami?

A group of at least 6-8 Neon Tetras distributes schooling behavior and reduces the chance that a single Gourami targets one fish repeatedly.

Will a planted tank help these two get along?

Heavy planting gives tetras visual breaks and hiding zones, which reduces stress if the Gourami becomes territorial near the surface.

Can Dwarf Gourami Live With Neon Tetra?

By Alex WalshLast reviewed Apr 18, 2026

It depends

Maybe, Dwarf Gouramis and Neon Tetras can coexist in 10+ gallons if the Gourami is female ordocile, but Gouramis are labyrinth fish with variable temperaments that tetras cannot escape in a small tank.

Why

Dwarf Gouramis grow to 2-3 inches and spend time near the surface, while Neon Tetras stay at 1.5 inches and school in the middle water column.
Neon Tetras need a group of at least 6 to hold their color and feel secure, which requires a tank with enough horizontal space for a loose school.
Dwarf Gouramis are labyrinth breathers and tolerate higher temperatures (up to 82°F) that overlap well with Neon Tetra requirements.
Gouramis of any species can display surface aggression toward tankmates perceived as intruders, and tetras swimming near the top may trigger that response.
Both species prefer planted tanks with subdued lighting, which benefits tetras and reduces stress for the Gourami.

Minimum shared tank

10 gallons

Shared temperature range

72-81°F

What could go wrong

A Gourami that establishes surface territory may chase tetras that swim too high, and tetras that feel trapped will fade in color and stop schooling properly.

Gear for a shared tank

Sized for the 10 gallon minimum this pairing needs. Affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them.

AquaClear 20 Power Filter

Rated for up to 10 gallons with enough biological media to handle the waste from both species.

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Eheim Jager 100W Thermostat Heater

Holds a steady temperature inside the 72-81°F window both species need.

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API Freshwater Master Test Kit

Keep ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate in check. Two-species tanks have more bioload and less margin for error than single-species setups.

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Better pairings to consider

In tanks with active Gouramis, consider mid-sized tetras such as Serpae Tetras or larger rasboras that hold their own without triggering surface aggression; smaller species work better with fully peaceful Gouramis in heavily planted tanks.