Can Glass Catfish Live With Neon Tetra?
Yes, glass catfishes and neon tetras share a tank well in 30 gallons or larger because both are peaceful mid-water fish with matching needs.
Why
- Glass catfishes grow to 4-5 inches and are completely transparent, schooling fish that drift through mid-water peacefully.
- Neon tetras stay at 1.5 inches and school tightly in the middle water column, which mirrors the glass catfish preferred zone.
- Both species tolerate temperatures of 72-79F and slightly acidic water around pH 6.0-7.0.
- Glass catfishes are passive and have no predatory instincts that would target small tetras.
- Neither species is territorial, so there are no zones to defend and no conflict points.
What could go wrong
Glass catfishes are sensitive to water quality and may suffer if the tank is not fully cycled, which can spread illness to the tetras.
Gear for a shared tank
Sized for the 30 gallon minimum this pairing needs. Affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them.
AquaClear 70 Power Filter
Oversized filtration is what lets you stock two species together without water quality crashing. Rated for a tank slightly larger than the 30 gallon minimum.
Eheim Jager 200W Thermostat Heater
Holds a steady temperature inside the 72-79°F window both species need.
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.
Related compatibility questions
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