Mollies and Zebra Danios, side by side
| Molly | Zebra danio | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 3.9 in10 cm | 2 in5 cm |
| Smallest tank | 30 gal114 L | 20 gal76 L |
| Keep | 3 or more | 6 or more |
| Temperature | 73–82 °F23–28 °C | 64–77 °F18–25 °C |
| pH | 7.5–8.5 | 6.5–8 |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims | In the middle | Near the top |
What size tank do they need together?
Each row shows how many of each the tank carries comfortably when these are the only two kinds in it.
| Tank | Molly | Zebra danio |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 20 gallon long | Too small for both | |
| 29 gallon | 3 | 6 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 4 | 9 |
| 55 gallon | 6 | 11 |
| 75 gallon | 8 | 16 |
| 125 gallon | 13 | 29 |
Open this pair in the stocking calculator to add more fish or try your own tank.
How to make it work
- Add the calmer, smaller fish first, and the larger fish last.
- Use plants, wood or rocks to break up the view across the tank. Fish that cannot see each other all day fight less.
- Watch closely for the first week. Torn fins, hiding or a fish that stops eating mean it is not working.
- Keep a spare tank or a divider ready, so you can separate them the same day.
Questions and answers
Can mollies and zebra danios live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Mollies and zebra danios like the same water: 73–77 °F (23–25 °C) and a pH of 7.5–8. Mollies spend their time in the middle and zebra danios near the top, so they stay out of each other's way.
What size tank do mollies and zebra danios need together?
At least a 29 gallon tank, which carries about 3 mollies and 6 zebra danios comfortably.
What temperature suits mollies and zebra danios?
73–77 °F (23–25 °C) suits both.
More pairs
- Mollies and bettas
- Mollies and guppies
- Mollies and neon tetras
- Mollies and fancy goldfish
- Mollies and angelfish
- Zebra danios and bronze corydoras
- Zebra danios and platies
- Zebra danios and tiger barbs
- Zebra danios and dwarf gouramis
- All pairs
Based on each species' adult size, water range and temperament (Seriously Fish, FishBase) and the rules of our stocking calculator. Individual fish differ: this is a guide, not a guarantee.