Can Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang Live Together?

Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang Compatibility Overview

Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang 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: Red Eye Tetra wants 6.0–8.0 and Yellow Tang wants 8.1–8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang
Factor	Red Eye Tetra	Yellow Tang	Verdict
Temperature	72–79°F	72–82°F	✅ 72–79°F
pH Range	6.0–8.0	8.1–8.4	❌ No overlap
Temperament	semi	semi	⚠️ Monitor
Adult Size	2.8 in	8.0 in	⚠️ 2.9× difference
Min. Group	6+	1+	See below
Min. Tank Size	100 gallons (for both species)		—

Compatibility Positives

A stable shared temperature range is available.

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: Red Eye Tetra wants 6.0–8.0 and Yellow Tang wants 8.1–8.4.

Both are semi, so give them a larger, well-planted tank and watch how they settle in.

Species Profiles

Red Eye Tetra — Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae

Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang compatibility — Red Eye Tetra

The Red Eye Tetra is a popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant red eyes and sleek, silver body. They are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive species. Their moderate activity level makes them suitable for a variety of aquarium setups. With proper care, they can live up to 5 years.

→ Full Red Eye Tetra care guide

Yellow Tang — Zebrasoma flavescens

Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang compatibility — Yellow Tang

The Yellow Tang is a popular and vibrant fish suitable for beginners. With its bright yellow color and blue stripes, it adds a striking contrast to the aquarium. They are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank, though they may be nippy with certain tankmates. They require a well-maintained tank with plenty of swimming space and a varied diet.

→ Full Yellow Tang care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Red Eye Tetra live with Yellow Tang?

Generally not recommended. Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang 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: Red Eye Tetra wants 6.0–8.0 and Yellow Tang wants 8.1–8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang together?

A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang?

72–79°F — inside Red Eye Tetra's 72–79°F and Yellow Tang's 72–82°F.

Is a Red Eye Tetra aggressive toward a Yellow Tang?

Red Eye Tetra is semi and Yellow Tang is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Red Eye Tetra and Yellow Tang

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

Scenario	Tank	When it applies
Minimum viable	100 gal	Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community	150 gal	Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup	220 gal	Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.

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