Can Rummy Nose Tetra Live With Blue Tang (Regal Tang)?
Incompatible pH. Rummy Nose Tetra needs 5.5–7.0, Blue Tang (Regal Tang) needs 8.1–8.4.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Rummy Nose Tetra | Blue Tang (Regal Tang) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–84°F | 75–82°F | 75–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 5.5–7 | 8.1–8.4 | No overlap ✗ |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi-aggressive | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 2.5" | 12" | Size mismatch ✗ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 75 gal | 75 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | intermediate | — |
Species Profiles
Rummy Nose Tetra
Hemigrammus rhodostomus
Rummy nose tetras are considered the ultimate schooling fish in the freshwater hobby. Their tight, synchronized formations are unmatched by any other tetra species. The vivid red nose serves as a health indicator — bright red means healthy, pale red means stressed. They prefer soft, acidic water and are slightly more demanding than neon tetras.
Full care guide →Blue Tang (Regal Tang)
Paracanthurus hepatus
The blue tang — Dory from Finding Nemo — is one of the most recognizable marine fish with its vivid royal blue body, black palette marking, and yellow tail. While stunning, they grow large (up to 12 inches), are highly susceptible to ich, and need tanks of 75+ gallons. They are not beginner fish despite their popularity following the movies.
Full care guide →