Compatibility check

Can Endler's livebearer live with Neon tetra?

Yes: Compatible.

No clashes under our rules: they share a temperature range, neither is a fin nipper or predator of the other, and their temperaments fit.

Temperature. Endler's livebearer does best at 24–30 °C (75–86 °F) and Neon tetra at 21–25 °C (70–77 °F). They share 24–25 °C.

Water. Their pH ranges overlap at 7–7.

Temperament and size. Endler's livebearer is peaceful and grows to 2.5 cm; Neon tetra is peaceful and grows to 3 cm. Endler's livebearer swims at the top and Neon tetra at the mid, which spreads them out.

Tank size and groups. Plan on at least 15 US gallons, the larger of the two cautious minimums. Keep Endler's livebearer in a group of 3+. Keep Neon tetra in a group of 8+. A starter mix of 3 Endler's livebearer and 8 Neon tetra in 15 gallons uses about 45% of the tank’s bioload capacity under our rules and grades A.

Keeping them together

  • Feeding: both feed in open water. Feed small amounts two or three times a day so the slower eater gets its share.
  • Aquascape: both are calmer with cover. Plants and floating cover make shy fish come out more, not less.
  • Group size: a full group is not optional. A schooling fish kept in too small a group is stressed and more likely to nip or hide.
  • Adding them: add the calmer species first and let it settle for a week or two before adding the other, and only once your tank has cycled.

Open this pair in the checker Add your other fish to grade the whole tank.

Quick facts

Endler's livebearerNeon tetra
Adult size2.5 cm3 cm
Min tank10 gal15 gal
Temperature24–30 °C21–25 °C
pH7–8.55–7
Temperamentpeacefulpeaceful
Group size3+8+

Data from the Species Ledger, checked November 9, 2026, with at least two sources per species. Cautious community guidelines, not guarantees: individual fish vary. Not veterinary advice. Disagree? Tell us.