๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โŒ Not Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 0/100
0/100 โ€” Not Compatible

Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby Compatibility Overview

Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: Black Neon Tetra wants 5.0โ€“7.5 and Firefish Goby wants 8.1โ€“8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby
FactorBlack Neon TetraFirefish GobyVerdict
Temperature68โ€“82ยฐF72โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 72โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range5.0โ€“7.58.1โ€“8.4โŒ No overlap
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size1.4 in3.0 inโš ๏ธ 2.1ร— difference
Min. Group8+1+See below
Min. Tank Size20 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

A stable shared temperature range is available.
Temperament risk is relatively low when normal group sizes are maintained.

Incompatibility Reasons

One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium.
Their pH ranges do not meet: Black Neon Tetra wants 5.0โ€“7.5 and Firefish Goby wants 8.1โ€“8.4.

Species Profiles

Black Neon Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi

Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby compatibility โ€” Black Neon Tetra

The Black Neon Tetra is a popular freshwater species known for its vibrant colors and peaceful temperament. It is an excellent addition to community tanks, thriving in groups of 6 or more. These tetras require a well-maintained aquarium with a flowing current and plenty of swimming space. With proper care, they can live up to 5 years.

โ†’ Full Black Neon Tetra care guide

Firefish Goby โ€” Nemateleotris magnifica

Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby compatibility โ€” Firefish Goby

The Firefish Goby is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums due to its vibrant colors and peaceful nature. These goby fish thrive in well-maintained tanks with plenty of live rock for them to explore. They are best kept in pairs or small groups and can be a great addition to a community tank with compatible species.

โ†’ Full Firefish Goby care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Neon Tetra live with Firefish Goby?

Generally not recommended. Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: Black Neon Tetra wants 5.0โ€“7.5 and Firefish Goby wants 8.1โ€“8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby together?

A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for keeping Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby?

72โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Black Neon Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF and Firefish Goby's 72โ€“82ยฐF.

Is a Black Neon Tetra aggressive toward a Firefish Goby?

Black Neon Tetra is peaceful and Firefish Goby is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Black Neon Tetra and Firefish Goby

Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable20 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community29 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup55 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.