Catfish are one of the most popular species among aquarists because of their unique appearance, peaceful nature, and beneficial role in keeping the tank clean. Choosing the right tank mates for catfish is very important to maintain a balanced environment where each species thrives. Whether you’re setting up a new community tank or adding to an existing one, this guide will highlight the best companions for catfish and provide tips on creating a harmonious tank.
1. Tetras
Tetras, Neon or Cardinal Tetras are great tankmates for small catfish species like Corydoras. Tetras are peaceful, active, and colorful; they bring great movement in the aquarium. They’re also non-aggressive, which is ideal for bottom-dwelling catfish.
- Compatibility: Highly compatible
- Tank Size: Minimum 15 gallons
2. Guppies
Guppies are amiable colorful fish and the most vivid addition to an aquarium. They are rather small and peaceful. Due to such characteristics, it is recommended to add a few individuals of Guppys into community aquariums. These fish do nicely with any type of Catfishes.
- Compatibility: Excellent
- Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
3. Gouramis
Dwarf Gouramis or Honey Gouramis – The most docile type that does really well in a Community tank. Their peaceful calm fish, very slow-swimming behavior combines well with an energetic bottom dweller that many Catfish are known for their behavior.
- Compatibility: Very compatible with peaceful catfish species
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
4. Platies
are hardy, friendly fish which come in a wide range of colors. They are very tolerant of many community tanks and have a docile nature, which is suitable for all catfish sizes.
- Compatibility: Very compatible
- Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
5. Mollies
are social, non-aggressive fish and will get along with big catfish. They are livebearers, and thus, having catfish may actually help to manage the molly population because it will consume the extra fry if needed.
- Compatibility: Good for mid-size tanks
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
6. Rasboras
Rasboras, andÂ
particularly the Harlequin Rasboras are quite peaceful schooling fish. For this reason, and especially their small size, it makes them an ideal mate for the catfish. The latter tends to rest most of the time, hovering near the middle-to-the-top levels of a tank.
- Compatibility: Great
- Tank Size: 15 gallons minimum
7. Angelfish
Angelfish can get along well with some catfish species that are larger such as Plecos in quite a large tank. Even as they tend to be with semi-aggressive nature, in most cases, they usually avoid messing with the cats which usually stay at the bottom of the tank.
- Compatibility: Excellent in large tanks with big catfish
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons
8. Swordtails
Swordtails are very active and robust. They can perfectly fit into a community arrangement of catfish. They spend most of their time in the middle area of the tank and don’t bother others. They are a very compatible member to your tank.
- Compatibility: Excellent for peaceful tanks
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
9. Zebra Danios
swim extremely fast, introducing energy to your tank without disturbing your catfish. It is not sensitive and does well with peaceful species.
- Compatibility: Extremely compatible with different types of catfish
- Tank Size: Minimum 15 gallons
10. Snails
Snails, particularly Nerite or Mystery Snails, are good companions for catfish. They serve to help maintain the algae control and cleaning duties in your aquarium.
- Compatibility: Excellent for most catfish species
- Tank Size: Suitable for any tank with steady water quality
Setting up the perfect catfish community tank
While catfish are quite peaceful and accommodating, one should always take into account the size of the tank, water parameters, and hiding spaces when adding new tank mates. There is a lot of hiding room in plants and rocks to give fish space to coexist peacefully. Regular water changes and a varied diet will also ensure a harmonious, healthy aquarium.
FAQs (frequently-asked questions)
Yes, most species of catfish can be kept together if the tank is large enough to fit them and accommodate their size and needs. Some catfish, like the Corydoras, coexist very well, but bigger catfish like Plecos, for instance, prefer alone spaces.
All will depend on the size of your tank and what species of catfish you will have. A good general rule is not to overstock, allowing one gallon of water per inch of fish.
Most catfish are nonaggressive. Some larger species, though, like Redtail or Clown Catfish, tend to be territorial. Be sure to research each species’ disposition before adding them to your community tank.
Catfish are bottom-feeders, so sinking pellets, algae wafers, and vegetables work well. Tank mates should receive appropriate food for their species, such as flakes for Tetras and other tropical fish.
Catfish like Plecos are excellent algae eaters, but they shouldn’t be relied upon as the sole method of algae control. Combine them with snails or regular tank cleaning for the best results.
