Congo Tetra: Tank Size, Tank Mates & How Many to Keep

What size tank do Congo tetras need?

At least 40 gallons (150 liters) for a group of 6. The smallest standard tank that works is the 37 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a proper group, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Phenacogrammus interruptus.

How many Congo tetras in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if Congo tetras are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Tank	How many Congo tetras
5 gallon	Too small
10 gallon	Too small
20 gallon long	Too small
29 gallon	Too small
40 gallon breeder	up to 10
55 gallon	up to 15
75 gallon	up to 20
125 gallon	up to 34

Check Congo tetras against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

Keep at least 6. Alone or in twos and threes, Congo tetras hide, stop eating well, or pick on each other.
Its long fins are a target. Avoid fin-nippers such as tiger barbs and serpae tetras.

Tank mates for Congo tetras

These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.

Poor matches

Betta: Betta often attacks other fish with long, flowing fins, such as Congo tetra.
Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
Tiger barb: Tiger barb nips fins and Congo tetra has long fins. Avoid this pair.
Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as Congo tetra.

Questions and answers

What size tank do Congo tetras need?

At least 40 gallons (150 liters) for a group of 6. The smallest standard tank that works is the 37 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many Congo tetras should be kept together?

At least 6. Congo tetras are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.

Can Congo tetras live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Congo tetra needs at least 40 gallons (150 liters).

What temperature do Congo tetras need?

73–81 °F (23–27 °C), with a pH of 6–7.5. In most homes that means a heater.

Can Congo tetras live with a betta?

It is not a good match. Betta often attacks other fish with long, flowing fins, such as Congo tetra.

More fish

Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.