Can Neon Tetra Live With Black Skirt Tetra?
Neon Tetra and Black Skirt Tetra are compatible. Temperature overlap 70–81°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Neon Tetra | Black Skirt Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–81°F | 70–82°F | 70–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7 | 6–7.5 | 6–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 1.5" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 15 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Neon Tetra + Black Skirt Tetra
To keep Neon Tetra and Black Skirt Tetra together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Neon Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. 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
Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
The Neon Tetra is arguably the most popular freshwater aquarium fish in the hobby. Their electric blue stripe and red tail create a stunning display, especially in large schools against a planted backdrop. Hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, neon tetras are perfect for beginners and make excellent community tank members.
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 →