35 Best Guppy Fish Tank Mates – The Ultimate List of Compatible Fish
Guppy fish, known for their vibrant colors and lively nature, thrive best when paired with compatible tank mates.
The 35 best companions for guppies range from peaceful bottom dwellers like Corydoras catfish to small schooling fish like neon tetras.
These companions not only coexist harmoniously but also create a dynamic, visually appealing aquarium environment.
Careful selection of tank mates ensures that guppies remain stress-free, reducing the chances of disease and promoting overall well-being in the community tank.
Best Way to Categorize Guppy Tank Mates
Ideal companions should have a peaceful temperament, a similar size, and compatible dietary and water parameter needs.
Given guppies’ preference for the middle to upper swimming zones, bottom dwellers, such as Corydoras catfish, make excellent choices. Other compatible species include neon tetras, mollies, and cherry shrimp.
Small Schooling Fish
Small schooling fish are aquatic species that swim synchronously in groups, showcasing collective movement. These diminutive swimmers, such as neon tetras and harlequin rasboras, are known for their vibrant colors and coordinated displays. Their social nature and compact size make them popular choices for community aquariums.
- Neon Tetras
- Cardinal Tetras
- Rummy-Nose Tetras
- Ember Tetras
- Harlequin Rasboras
- Galaxy Rasboras
- Zebra Danios
- Leopard Danios
- Japanese Ricefish
- White Cloud Minnows
Peaceful Bottom Dwellers
Peaceful bottom dwellers, like Cory catfish and Bristlenose plecos, are tranquil fish that predominantly inhabit the aquarium’s lower regions. These species often engage in scavenging, feeding on uneaten food and algae. Their serene nature and unique behaviors make them essential components for a balanced and harmonious community tank.
- Corydoras Catfish
- Bristlenose Pleco
- Siamese Algae Eater
- Otocinclus Catfish
- Dwarf Chain Loach
- Kuhli Loaches
- Hoplo Catfish
Surface and Mid-water Swimmers
Surface and mid-water swimmers, such as platy fish and molly fish, occupy the upper and central portions of aquariums. Renowned for their lively demeanor and vibrant hues, they often interact with tank mates and exhibit social behaviors. Their presence adds dynamic movement and visual interest to community aquatic environments.
- Platy Fish
- Molly Fish
- Swordtail Fish
- Pearl Gourami
- Dwarf Gouramis
- Angelfish
- Female Betta Fish
- Neon Blue Rainbowfish
- Ram Cichlids
- Endler’s Livebearers
Non-fish Companions
Non-fish companions, including snails, shrimp, and African dwarf frogs, enrich aquarium ecosystems with diversity. Often serving roles like algae control or substrate cleaning, they introduce unique behaviors and aesthetics to tanks. These creatures enhance aquatic environments, providing both functional benefits and added intrigue for observers.
- Amano Shrimp
- Bamboo Shrimp
- Electric Blue Crayfish
- Rabbit Snails
- Nerite Snails
- Apple Snails
- Ramhorn Snails
- African Dwarf Frog
Ultimate List of The Best Guppy Fish Tank Mates
When selecting tank mates for guppies, it’s essential to consider size, temperament, and environmental needs. Ideal companions should be non-aggressive and thrive in similar water conditions.
Ensure that the chosen species won’t compete excessively for food or dominate tank spaces. Research each species’ requirements and behaviors, and avoid those with predatory tendencies. Below, you can learn about various compatible guppy tank mates:
Neon Tetras
Neon Tetras are small, vibrantly colored fish, reaching an adult size of around 1.5 inches. Their shimmering blue and red hues make them an attractive choice for many aquarists. In terms of temperament, they are peaceful schooling fish, making them harmoniously compatible with guppies. Both species have similar water parameter requirements, preferring a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and temperatures between 70°F to 81°F.
Dietarily, neon tetras are omnivorous, consuming both plant and animal matter, aligning with guppy preferences. Predominantly, they inhabit the middle swimming zone of the tank, complementing guppies and preventing overcrowding.
Cardinal Tetras
Cardinal Tetras are renowned for their striking blue and red striping, growing to an adult size of about 2 inches. Their peaceful and sociable temperament makes them highly compatible with guppies. Both species share similar water parameter requirements, favoring a pH of 5.5 to 7.5 and temperatures between 73°F to 81°F.
Cardinal tetras, like guppies, are omnivorous, appreciating a diet balanced in plant and animal matter. They exhibit schooling behavior, primarily swimming in the middle zone of the aquarium. This trait ensures they don’t compete for space with guppies, fostering a harmonious and visually appealing tank environment.
Rummy-Nose Tetras
Rummy-Nose Tetras captivate with their distinctive red-faced appearance, maturing to around 2.5 inches. Known for their gentle and schooling behavior, they coexist amicably with guppies. Both fish thrive in similar water conditions, desiring a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and temperatures between 75°F to 82°F.
As omnivores, Rummy-Nose Tetras have a varied diet that aligns well with guppies, encompassing both plant-based foods and small aquatic creatures. They predominantly swim in the middle to upper zones of the aquarium, ensuring they neither overshadow nor compete with guppies, thereby creating a balanced, lively, and cooperative aquatic habitat.
Ember Tetras
Ember Tetras, small and fiery-orange in hue, reach an adult size of about 1 inch. Their diminutive size and tranquil nature make them ideal companions for guppies. Both species thrive in similar aquatic environments, preferring a pH of 5.5 to 7 and temperatures between 73°F to 84°F.
Omnivorous by nature, Ember Tetras enjoy a diverse diet, aligning seamlessly with guppy feeding habits. Their schooling behavior sees them mainly occupying the middle strata of the aquarium. Given their non-competitive nature and shared habitat preferences, Ember Tetras and guppies together foster a cohesive, vibrant, and harmoniously active tank community.
Harlequin Rasboras
Harlequin Rasboras are renowned for their iconic triangular black patch against a silver-gold body, growing to an adult size of about 2 inches. Their peaceful disposition and schooling tendencies make them compatible neighbors for guppies. Both fish species favor similar water conditions, seeking a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and temperatures between 74°F to 80°F.
As omnivores, Harlequin Rasboras have dietary needs mirroring guppies, relishing a mix of plant and animal-based foods. They predominantly frequent the middle layers of the aquarium. With their complementary behaviors and environmental needs, Harlequin Rasboras and guppies coexist, creating a dynamic yet harmonious aquatic spectacle.
Galaxy Rasboras
Galaxy Rasboras, often termed as celestial pearl danios, enchant with their starry, deep blue bodies dotted with pearlescent specks, maturing to around 1 inch. Their docile and schooling nature fosters a harmonious existence with guppies. Both species thrive in comparable water settings, requiring a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures of 73°F to 79°F.
As omnivores, Galaxy Rasboras consume a varied diet, consistent with guppy preferences, including small invertebrates and plant matter. These petite swimmers primarily navigate the middle sections of the aquarium. Their non-aggressive demeanor, shared habitat needs, and striking appearance make them an exquisite complement to guppies in community tanks.
Zebra Danios
Zebra Danios, easily recognizable by their horizontal blue and silver stripes, reach an adult size of about 2 inches. Their energetic yet peaceful demeanor ensures a compatible coexistence with guppies. Both species have overlapping water needs, gravitating towards a pH range of 6.5 to 7.2 and temperatures from 65°F to 77°F.
Zebra Danios, being omnivorous, relish a diverse diet similar to guppies, consisting of both plant matter and small aquatic creatures. Their active swimming patterns see them predominantly darting through the middle to upper zones of the tank.
This complementary lifestyle, combined with shared environmental affinities, allows Zebra Danios and guppies to thrive together harmoniously.
Leopard Danios
Leopard Danios, marked by their unique spotted patterns over a golden body, mature to about 2 inches. Their lively, yet non-aggressive nature establishes a harmonious relationship with guppies. Both fish types have congruent water preferences, typically desiring a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures between 64°F to 74°F.
As omnivores, Leopard Danios indulge in a varied diet that aligns well with guppy preferences, encompassing both plant materials and tiny aquatic organisms. These active swimmers mostly frequent the middle and upper regions of the aquarium. Given their shared habitat requirements and compatible behaviors, Leopard Danios and guppies form a dynamic and balanced aquatic ensemble.
Japanese Ricefish
Japanese Ricefish, often termed medaka, are delicate, translucent fish, reaching an adult size of about 1.5 inches. Their gentle and placid temperament makes them ideal companions for guppies. Both fish require similar water environments, preferring a pH range of 6.5 to 8.2 and temperatures between 68°F to 78°F.
As omnivores, Japanese Ricefish consume a mixed diet of small invertebrates and plant matter, mirroring the dietary preferences of guppies. They display a preference for the middle strata of the aquarium, complementing the swimming patterns of guppies.
The congenial nature, shared habitat needs, and mutual dietary interests make Japanese Ricefish and guppies a serene and compatible pairing in communal tanks.
White Cloud Minnows
White Cloud Minnows, with their subtle iridescent hues, achieve an adult size of around 1.5 inches. Their tranquil and schooling nature ensures harmonious cohabitation with guppies. Both fish share similar water parameter needs, preferring a pH of 6.0 to 8.0 and temperatures between 64°F to 72°F, though they can tolerate cooler conditions.
As omnivores, White Cloud Minnows have dietary habits akin to guppies, consuming both small aquatic organisms and plant material. Their tendency to swim primarily in the middle and upper layers of the tank complements the guppy’s space preferences. With their aligned needs and non-aggressive behaviors, these minnows and guppies create a balanced and peaceful aquatic environment.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras Catfish, armored with a bony plate exterior, typically reach an adult size of 2 to 3 inches, depending on the species. Renowned for their peaceful and sociable temperament, they coexist seamlessly with guppies. Both species relish similar water conditions, favoring a pH range of 6.0 to 7.8 and temperatures from 72°F to 78°F.
Corydoras, being primarily bottom feeders, thrive on a diet rich in sinking pellets, worms, and occasional vegetable matter, though they won’t compete with guppies for food. They mainly explore the tank’s bottom layer, scavenging for leftovers. This distinct behavior and compatible nature make Corydoras an ideal tank mate, ensuring a dynamic yet harmonious aquatic setting.
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos, distinguished by their tentacle-like whiskers, mature to about 4 to 6 inches. Their calm demeanor and primarily nocturnal habits make them unobtrusive companions for guppies. Both fish require similar water conditions, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures between 60°F to 80°F.
Bristlenose Plecos are herbivorous bottom feeders, chiefly feasting on algae, sinking pellets, and occasional fresh vegetables, ensuring no food competition with mid-swimming guppies. They typically reside near the substrate, using driftwood and caves as shelters.
Their non-aggressive nature, efficient algae-cleaning habits, and substrate preference allow Bristlenose Plecos and guppies to cohabitate harmoniously in a diverse aquarium ecosystem.
Siamese Algae Eater
Siamese Algae Eaters, characterized by a slender body and a distinct black stripe, grow up to 6 inches. Their non-aggressive, active nature aligns well with the peaceful demeanor of guppies. Both species thrive in similar water conditions, seeking a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures between 75°F to 79°F.
Notably herbivorous, Siamese Algae Eaters have an appetite for various algae types, making them beneficial for tank cleanliness. Though they occasionally enjoy protein-based foods, they rarely compete with guppies for meals.
Preferring the middle and bottom sections of the tank, their complementary swimming habits alongside guppies ensure a vibrant, harmonious aquatic environment.
Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus Catfish, often referred to as “Otos”, are diminutive creatures, growing to just 1.5 to 2 inches. Their docile, non-aggressive nature makes them perfect companions for guppies. Both fish flourish in similar water conditions, gravitating towards a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and temperatures between 72°F to 82°F.
Primarily herbivorous, Otocinclus feed on algae coatings on surfaces, playing a vital role in maintaining tank cleanliness. While they savor occasional veggies, they don’t contest guppies for food. Mostly found adhering to surfaces or exploring the bottom strata, their behavior and spatial preference perfectly complement guppies, creating a balanced and congenial tank ecosystem.
Dwarf Chain Loaches
Dwarf Chain Loaches, adorned with striking chain-like patterns, achieve an adult size of about 2 to 2.5 inches. These active yet non-aggressive fish gel well with the amiable nature of guppies. Both species thrive in similar aquatic settings, favoring a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures between 72°F to 79°F.
As omnivores, Dwarf Chain Loaches have a varied diet consisting of small invertebrates, sinking pellets, and plant matter, without posing a dietary competition to guppies. Their active behavior often leads them to dart across the middle and bottom regions of the tank.
Their complementary temperament and distinct behavior make them an engaging and harmonious addition to a guppy-inhabited aquarium.
Kuhli Loaches
Kuhli Loaches, resembling little aquatic serpents with their elongated, eel-like bodies, reach an adult size of 3 to 5 inches. Their gentle and reclusive nature ensures a peaceful coexistence with guppies. Both fish appreciate similar water conditions, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 and temperatures spanning 73°F to 86°F.
As omnivores, Kuhli Loaches enjoy a diet of small worms, crustaceans, sinking pellets, and occasional plant debris. Their nocturnal tendencies mean they’re often hidden during the day, burrowing or nestling under decor, and thus, they rarely intrude on guppies’ territory. This behavior, paired with their subdued temperament, ensures a harmonious tank environment when housed with guppies.
Hoplo Catfish
Hoplo Catfish, sporting a robust armored exterior, can grow up to 6 inches in a home aquarium setting. Their even-tempered and placid nature complements the guppy’s friendly demeanor seamlessly. Both species flourish under similar water conditions, gravitating towards a pH of 6.0 to 8.0 and temperatures between 68°F to 78°F.
Being omnivorous, Hoplo Catfish savor a diet that includes both plant matter and meaty foods like worms or small crustaceans, without imposing any food competition for guppies. Though they predominantly roam the tank’s bottom strata, their gentle behavior ensures guppies can swim freely. Together, they cohabit creating a lively, yet peaceful aquatic tableau.
Platy Fish
Platy Fish, vivid and vivacious, reach an adult size of about 1.5 to 2.5 inches. Their gentle, social temperament meshes well with the sociable nature of guppies. Both species thrive in similar environments, preferring a pH range of 7.0 to 8.3 and temperatures of 70°F to 77°F.
As omnivores, Platies relish a diverse diet of flakes, small crustaceans, and plant matter, harmonizing dietary interests with guppies. In the aquarium, Platies often occupy the middle strata, darting playfully and cohabiting peacefully with their guppy neighbors. Their shared requirements, matched temperaments, and vibrant colors make the pairing of guppies and Platies a captivating aquatic display.
Molly Fish
Molly Fish, with their diverse colorations and patterns, generally grow to an adult size of 3 to 4.5 inches. Their sociable, non-aggressive demeanor aligns seamlessly with the guppy’s friendly nature. Both species prosper in congruent water conditions, targeting a pH range of 7.5 to 8.5 and temperatures from 72°F to 82°F.
As omnivores, Mollies have a varied diet including flakes, small invertebrates, and plant material, aligning their dietary habits with guppies without competition. They predominantly frequent the middle to top swimming zones, gracefully coexisting with guppies.
Their shared environmental needs and harmonious behaviors make Mollies and guppies a delightful and compatible pairing in an aquarium.
Swordtail Fish
Swordtail Fish, renowned for their signature elongated tail fin, typically reach an adult size of 4 to 5 inches. Possessing a calm, communal temperament, they naturally gel with the guppy’s affable disposition. Both species flourish in harmonious water settings, favoring a pH range of 7.0 to 8.4 and temperatures between 72°F and 78°F.
As omnivores, Swordtails partake in a varied diet consisting of flakes, brine shrimp, and plant detritus, mirroring guppies’ dietary inclinations without vying for food. They predominantly navigate the middle to upper swimming zones, coexisting peacefully with guppies.
Their mutual requirements and congenial temperaments ensure that Swordtails and guppies share a serene aquatic domain.
Pearl Gourami
Pearl Gourami, adorned with a captivating pattern reminiscent of pearls, mature to a size of 4 to 5 inches. With their tranquil and docile temperament, they can coexist harmoniously with guppies. Both species find solace in similar aquatic conditions, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and temperatures ranging from 77°F to 82°F.
Being omnivorous, Pearl Gouramis enjoy a diverse diet encompassing both vegetable matter and small live foods, akin to guppies, without inducing competition. They generally swim in the middle to top strata of the aquarium, often sharing these zones with guppies. Their shared habitat preferences and complementary behaviors make them fitting companions in a mixed tank.
Dwarf Gouramis
Dwarf Gouramis, characterized by their vibrant, iridescent hues, achieve an adult size of around 2 to 3.5 inches. They are gentle and somewhat shy, making their disposition compatible with the congenial nature of guppies. Both species thrive under similar water conditions, preferring a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and temperatures of 72°F to 82°F.
As omnivores, Dwarf Gouramis appreciate a mixed diet of vegetable matter and small live foods, harmoniously aligning with guppies’ dietary habits. Typically, they are found occupying the top and middle layers of the tank, effortlessly sharing these zones with guppies. Their mutual environmental needs and complementary behaviors advocate for their cohabitation in a shared aquarium.
Angelfish
Angelfish, with their distinctive arrow-shaped bodies and elongated fins, can reach an adult size of up to 6 inches. Generally peaceful, they can coexist with guppies, although caution is advised due to their occasional predatory instincts towards smaller fish. Both species enjoy water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures from 76°F to 82°F.
Angelfish, being omnivores, savor a diet of flake foods, live brine shrimp, and worms, complementing the dietary preferences of guppies. They usually glide gracefully within the middle layers of the tank. While their environmental requirements align, compatibility depends on the specific temperament of individual angelfish and their size relative to the guppies.
Female Betta Fish
Female Betta Fish, renowned for their vivid colors, typically measure around 2 to 2.5 inches in adulthood. While they are less aggressive than their male counterparts, occasional spats can occur, hence it’s essential to monitor interactions. Guppies and female bettas both prefer water conditions with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures ranging from 76°F to 81°F.
As carnivores, female bettas relish protein-rich diets of pellets, brine shrimp, and daphnia, whereas guppies are omnivorous. Female bettas often swim across all layers of the tank but mostly occupy the top. Their overlapping environmental needs make them potential tank mates for guppies, but close observation is crucial to ensure harmonious cohabitation.
Neon Blue Rainbowfish
Neon Blue Rainbowfish are vibrant, shimmering additions to any aquarium. They can grow up to 4 inches in adulthood. Their peaceful temperament makes them suitable tank mates for guppies, though their larger size requires a spacious environment. Both species thrive in water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures of 74°F to 80°F.
Neon Blue Rainbowfish, being omnivores, enjoy a varied diet of flake foods, live foods, and vegetable matter — a preference that aligns with guppy dietary habits. Predominantly mid-water swimmers, these rainbowfish don’t infringe on guppy territories. Their similar environmental and dietary needs, combined with a docile nature, make them compatible companions for guppies.
Ram Cichlids
Ram Cichlids, often celebrated for their stunning colors, grow to about 2 to 3 inches in adulthood. Unlike many cichlids, rams are notably peaceful, which makes them compatible with guppies. Both species flourish in water with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and temperatures between 78°F to 85°F.
Ram Cichlids, being omnivores, have a diverse diet, enjoying both protein-rich foods and plant matter. This dietary flexibility aligns with the guppies’ omnivorous preferences. Rams tend to be bottom to mid-water swimmers, allowing ample space for guppies in the upper regions.
Given their congenial temperament and similar habitat needs, Ram Cichlids can coexist harmoniously with guppies when appropriately introduced.
Endler’s Livebearers
Endler’s Livebearers are vibrant, small fish, closely related to guppies, that reach an adult size of just 1 to 1.5 inches. Known for their peaceful and social demeanor, they coexist seamlessly with guppies. Both species thrive in water with a pH of 6.7 to 8.5 and temperatures ranging from 72°F to 78°F.
Endler’s, like guppies, are omnivorous and enjoy a mix of algae, brine shrimp, and flake foods. Their swimming habits are active and generally oriented towards the top and middle water columns, aligning well with guppy behavior. Given their compatible nature, size, and care requirements, Endler’s Livebearers make ideal tank mates for guppies.
Amano Shrimp
Amano Shrimp, reaching an adult size of 1.5 to 2 inches, are a popular choice for freshwater aquarists due to their peaceful temperament and voracious appetite for algae. Compatible with guppies, they are non-aggressive and spend much of their time scavenging the tank floor and decorations for food. Thriving in water parameters similar to guppies, they prefer a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures between 70°F and 78°F.
Amano Shrimp are omnivores, consuming algae, detritus, and occasionally commercial shrimp food. Positioned mostly at the bottom, they do not interfere with the guppies’ preferred swimming zones, making them an excellent tank mate option.
Bamboo Shrimp
Bamboo Shrimp, also known as wood shrimp, can grow up to 3 to 4 inches in adulthood. These large, fascinating invertebrates are recognized for their fan-like appendages, which they use to filter feed. Exemplifying a calm demeanor, they are harmonious with guppies and aren’t predatory. Bamboo Shrimp thrive in water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures between 72°F and 82°F.
Being filter feeders, they extract minute particles from the water, often perching in areas with good water flow. Predominantly, they occupy the mid to upper sections of a tank, ensuring they don’t encroach on the guppies’ territories, making them suitable companions.
Electric Blue Crayfish
Electric Blue Crayfish, known for their vibrant blue hue, can grow to a size of 5 to 8 inches. These freshwater invertebrates are often sought after for their aesthetic appeal. However, their compatibility with guppies is questionable. They exhibit semi-aggressive behaviors and are opportunistic hunters, meaning they might prey on smaller fish like guppies when given the chance.
They prefer water with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. These crayfish consume a mixed diet of plant matter, detritus, and animal-based foods. Mostly, they dwell at the tank’s bottom, using hiding spots to ambush unsuspecting prey. Hence, while intriguing, they may not be the best companions for guppies.
Rabbit Snails
Rabbit Snails, also known as Sulawesi snails, are unique freshwater mollusks recognizable by their elongated, spiral shells. Typically growing to around 4-5 inches in length, these snails exhibit a peaceful temperament, making them ideal tank mates for guppies. Rabbi