Neon Tetras and Platies, side by side
| Neon tetra | Platy | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 1.4 in3.5 cm | 2.4 in6 cm |
| Smallest tank | 10 gal38 L | 15 gal57 L |
| Keep | 6 or more | 3 or more |
| Temperature | 70–79 °F21–26 °C | 68–79 °F20–26 °C |
| pH | 5.5–7.5 | 7–8.2 |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims | In the middle | In the middle |
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 | Neon tetra | Platy |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 20 gallon long | 7 | 4 |
| 29 gallon | 13 | 5 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 15 | 8 |
| 55 gallon | 21 | 11 |
| 75 gallon | 29 | 15 |
| 125 gallon | 30 | 24 |
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 neon tetras and platies live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Neon tetras and platies like the same water: 70–79 °F (21–26 °C) and a pH of 7–7.5. Both spend their time in the middle, so give them enough length to share.
What size tank do neon tetras and platies need together?
At least a 20 gallon long tank, which carries about 7 neon tetras and 4 platies comfortably.
What temperature suits neon tetras and platies?
70–79 °F (21–26 °C) suits both.
More pairs
- Neon tetras and bettas
- Neon tetras and guppies
- Neon tetras and fancy goldfish
- Neon tetras and angelfish
- Neon tetras and bronze corydoras
- Platies and mollies
- Platies and tiger barbs
- Platies and dwarf gouramis
- Platies and cherry shrimp
- 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.