Fish get along when they share temperature and pH ranges, have similar temperaments, and none is big enough to eat another. Peaceful schooling fish, corydoras, livebearers and snails mix well; fin nippers, aggressive cichlids and big predators need careful planning.
Common pairings
Generated from the same rules as the stocking calculator. For a single pair, see can these fish live together?
| Neon tetra | Betta | Guppy | Corydoras | Tiger barb | Angelfish | Cherry shrimp | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neon tetra | — | Care | OK | OK | Care | No | OK |
| Betta | Care | No | No | OK | No | No | Care |
| Guppy | OK | No | — | OK | No | No | OK |
| Corydoras | OK | OK | OK | — | OK | OK | OK |
| Tiger barb | Care | No | No | OK | — | No | Care |
| Angelfish | No | No | No | OK | No | — | No |
| Cherry shrimp | OK | Care | OK | OK | Care | No | — |
The five questions
- Same temperature? Ranges must overlap by a few degrees.
- Same water? pH ranges must overlap.
- Same temperament? Peaceful with peaceful.
- Will anyone fit in a mouth? A fish 3× the size of another may eat it.
- Enough of each? Schooling fish need 6 or more to feel safe.
Questions
Why are tiger barbs a problem?
They nip fins, especially in small groups. Keep 6 or more, and never with long-finned fish like bettas, guppies or angelfish.
Can goldfish live with tropical fish?
No. Goldfish want cooler water (65–72°F) than most tropical fish, and they grow large and messy.
General information, not veterinary advice. Updated November 2026.