10 Best Guppy Fish Tank Mates 2024 (With Pictures)

As an experienced fishkeeper, I understand the joy and color these lively little swimmers bring to any tank. However, the key to a thriving aquarium isn’t just about the guppies themselves; it’s about their companions.

Guppies, known for their bright colors and active behavior, are a favorite among both beginner and seasoned aquarium enthusiasts. But, like any social creature, they thrive best when surrounded by the right company.

From temperament compatibility to shared habitat needs, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make informed decisions for a vibrant and healthy aquarium community. Let’s embark on this journey to discover the ideal friends for your guppy fish.

Best Guppy Fish Tank Mates

Now we’re going to explore the ideal partners for your guppy fish, ensuring a harmonious and healthy community in your aquarium.

1. Neon Tetra

The Neon Tetra, with its vibrant blue and red stripes, is a splendid choice as a tank mate for guppies. These small, peaceful fish are easy to care for, making them ideal for both novice and experienced aquarists. Neon Tetras thrive in groups, so consider keeping a small school to see them at their best.

Their calm temperament and similar diet to guppies ensure a harmonious coexistence. With their modest size, they fit perfectly in a community tank, adding a dynamic splash of color without overwhelming their guppy companions.

2. Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras Catfish, often simply known as Corys, is a fantastic companion for guppy fish. These small bottom-dwellers are known for their peaceful and sociable nature. Easy to care for, Corydoras are great for both beginners and experienced aquarium keepers.

They are omnivorous, so their dietary needs easily align with those of guppies. Corys are happiest in small groups, where they can be seen playfully foraging together at the bottom of the tank.

3. Platy Fish

Platy Fish are an excellent choice as tank mates for guppies. Known for their vibrant colors and peaceful demeanor, they are a delightful addition to any community aquarium. Platies are easy to care for, thriving in similar water conditions as guppies, which makes them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists.

They are sociable creatures, enjoying the company of other peaceful fish like guppies. With their omnivorous diet, feeding becomes a straightforward task. Platies’ small size ensures they don’t overcrowd the tank, allowing for a balanced and stress-free environment for your guppy fish.

4. Harlequin Rasboras

Harlequin Rasboras are an ideal choice for sharing a tank with guppies. These small, peaceful fish are known for their striking orange body and distinctive black patch. Easy to care for, Harlequin Rasboras are perfect for aquarists of any experience level. They thrive in a group, adding a dynamic and playful presence to the aquarium.

Their sociable nature allows them to coexist harmoniously with guppies. With similar dietary needs, they fit seamlessly into the feeding routine of a guppy tank. Their modest size and peaceful disposition make them an excellent candidate for a vibrant, stress-free community aquarium.

5. Molly Fish

Molly Fish are a great addition to a guppy tank, known for their adaptability and peaceful nature. These fish come in various colors and can grow a bit larger than guppies, adding diversity to your aquarium. They are omnivores, sharing similar dietary preferences with guppies, which makes feeding them together convenient.

Mollyfish are social creatures, enjoying the company of other non-aggressive fish. They require a bit more space, so a larger tank is recommended for their comfort. Their peaceful temperament ensures a harmonious living environment, making them a fantastic choice for cohabiting with guppies in a lively and engaging community tank.

6. Dwarf Gourami

Dwarf Gourami makes a serene and colorful addition to a guppy tank. Their small size and peaceful nature align perfectly with the requirements of a guppy-friendly environment. These fish are known for their striking colors and shy temperament, adding both visual appeal and a gentle dynamic to the tank.

As omnivores, their dietary needs are easily compatible with those of guppies. Dwarf Gouramis do well in a tranquil setting, making them an excellent choice for cohabitation with the equally peaceful guppies. A moderately sized tank is sufficient for them to thrive, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free habitat for both guppies and Dwarf Gouramis.

7. Cherry Shrimp

Cherry Shrimp are a fantastic choice for a guppy tank, bringing a unique dynamic with their small size and vibrant red coloration. These shrimps are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them perfect companions for guppies. They are not demanding in terms of care, suitable for aquarists of all levels.

Cherry Shrimp are omnivorous with a special fondness for algae, which helps in maintaining a clean and healthy tank environment. They require minimal space, allowing them to thrive even in smaller aquariums. Their serene nature and beneficial cleaning habits make them an excellent addition to a guppy aquarium, creating a diverse and harmonious underwater ecosystem.

8. Nerite Snails

Nerite Snails are excellent tank mates for guppies due to their peaceful nature and beneficial role in the aquarium. These small snails are known for their impressive ability to clean algae, contributing to a healthier and clearer tank environment. With a diet that includes algae and other organic materials, they are easy to care for and can coexist seamlessly with guppies.

Their small size ensures they don’t require much space, making them suitable even for smaller aquariums. The non-intrusive and calm demeanor of Nerite Snails makes them an ideal choice for maintaining balance in a guppy tank, adding both utility and a touch of diversity to the aquatic setting.

9. Otocinclus Catfish

Otocinclus Catfish, often called “Otos,” are a wonderful addition to a guppy tank. These small, peaceful fish are known for their algae-eating habits, making them excellent for keeping the tank clean and balanced. They are shy and non-aggressive, coexisting peacefully alongside guppies.

Otos are somewhat more delicate than some other fish, requiring a bit of care in maintaining water quality, but they are still manageable for most aquarists. Their diet, primarily consisting of algae, complements the feeding habits of guppies.

The modest size of Otocinclus Catfish makes them an ideal choice for small to medium-sized tanks, contributing to a healthy and harmonious aquarium ecosystem alongside guppies.

10. Swordtail Fish

Swordtail Fish are an excellent choice for pairing with guppies in a home aquarium. These fish are known for their distinctive, elongated tails and vibrant colors. They are peaceful yet active, making them lively companions for guppies without causing any distress.

Swordtails are omnivorous, sharing similar dietary preferences with guppies, which simplifies feeding routines. They are easy to care for and adapt well to a variety of water conditions, suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. A slightly larger tank is ideal to accommodate their active swimming habits.

Tank Conditions for a Multi-Species Aquarium

Creating a multi-species aquarium, like one housing guppies and their compatible tank mates, requires attention to several key factors. The goal is to establish an environment where different species can coexist harmoniously while ensuring their individual needs are met. Here’s a guide to setting up and maintaining such an aquarium:

1. Ideal Water Parameters

1. Temperature: Most tropical fish, including guppies, thrive in water temperatures between 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C). Consistency is key, so a reliable heater is essential.
2. pH Level: Aim for a pH level between 6.5 to 7.5. This range is suitable for most tropical fish.
3. Hardness: General hardness (GH) should be in the range of 8-12 dGH, and carbonate hardness (KH) between 3-8 dKH.
4. Nitrogen Cycle: Ensure the tank is fully cycled before introducing any fish. Ammonia and nitrite levels should always be at 0, with nitrates kept below 20 ppm.

2. Tank Size and Layout

1. Size: A larger tank is always better for a multi-species setup. Start with at least a 20-gallon tank, considering the adult size of the fish.
2. Hiding Spots: Include plants, rocks, and driftwood to create hiding spots and territories, reducing stress and aggression among fish.
3. Swimming Space: Ensure there’s enough open space for free swimming, especially for active species.

3. Environment and Equipment

1. Filtration: Use a high-quality filter to keep the water clean and well-oxygenated. Avoid strong currents as some species prefer calmer waters.
2. Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal for most tropical fish and live plants. It can be adjusted based on the specific needs of the species and plants in the tank.
3. Substrate: Choose a substrate that suits both the aesthetic and the inhabitants of your tank. Some fish prefer sandy substrates, while others are indifferent.

4. Maintaining a Healthy Tank

1. Regular Water Changes: Perform weekly water changes of about 20-25% to maintain water quality.
2. Monitor Water Parameters: Regularly test the water for pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
3. Balanced Feeding: Feed a varied diet suitable for all species in the tank. Avoid overfeeding to prevent water pollution.
4. Quarantine New Arrivals: To prevent the spread of diseases, quarantine new fish before adding them to the main tank.
5. Observe Fish Behavior: Regular observation helps in the early detection of health issues or aggression, allowing for timely intervention.

By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving, visually appealing multi-species aquarium where guppies and their tank mates can live healthily and happily together.