๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โœ… Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 93/100
93/100 โ€” Compatible

Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish Compatibility Overview

Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

Compatibility factors for Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish
FactorBlack Neon TetraGlass CatfishVerdict
Temperature68โ€“82ยฐF68โ€“79ยฐFโœ… 68โ€“79ยฐF
pH Range5.0โ€“7.54.0โ€“7.0โœ… 5.0โ€“7.0
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size1.4 in2.6 inโœ… Similar
Min. Group8+6+See below
Min. Tank Size20 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

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

Caution Points

No major compatibility issues identified for this pair.

Species Profiles

Black Neon Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi

Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish 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

Glass Catfish โ€” Kryptopterus vitreolus

Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish compatibility โ€” Glass Catfish

The Glass Catfish, Kryptopterus vitreolus, is a popular freshwater aquarium fish known for its unique, translucent body and iridescent scales. It is a peaceful species that thrives in groups and is suitable for beginners due to its hardy nature. These catfish are bottom-dwellers and require a well-decorated tank with plenty of swimming space.

โ†’ Full Glass Catfish care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Neon Tetra live with Glass Catfish?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

What tank size do I need for Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish together?

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

What temperature suits both Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish?

68โ€“79ยฐF โ€” inside Black Neon Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF and Glass Catfish's 68โ€“79ยฐF.

Is a Black Neon Tetra aggressive toward a Glass Catfish?

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

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Black Neon Tetra and Glass Catfish

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

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable21 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.