Can Molly Live With Black Skirt Tetra?
Molly and Black Skirt Tetra are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–82°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Molly | Black Skirt Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 70–82°F | 72–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8.5 | 6–7.5 | 7–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 4.5" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 15 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Molly + Black Skirt Tetra
To keep Molly and Black Skirt Tetra together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Molly should be kept in a school of 4+. Black Skirt Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Molly
Poecilia sphenops
Mollies are versatile livebearers that come in many varieties including black, dalmatian, balloon, and sailfin. They prefer hard, alkaline water and can even tolerate brackish conditions. They are active, personable fish that breed easily.
Full care guide →Black Skirt Tetra
Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Black skirt tetras (also sold as black widow tetras) are hardy, easy-to-care-for schooling fish with a distinctive flowing black anal fin that gives them their name. They come in natural silver-and-black and various dyed/modified versions (GloFish). The natural form is the healthiest choice. They can be mild fin nippers in small groups but are generally well-behaved community fish.
Full care guide →