Can neon tetras and fancy goldfish live together?

With care

Neon tetras and fancy goldfish can share a tank, but there is something to watch.

Neon tetra Fancy goldfish

Why

  • Their pH ranges only meet at 7.0, which leaves no margin.
  • An adult fancy goldfish is big enough to eat neon tetras.

What each one needs

Neon tetraFancy goldfishBoth
Temperature70–81°F (21–27°C)65–72°F (18–22°C)70–72°F (21–22°C)
pH6.0–7.07.0–8.07.0–7.0
Minimum tank10 gal (38 L)20 gal (76 L)20 gal (76 L)
Keep at least61
Adult size1.5 in (3.8 cm)7 in (17.8 cm)

The smallest tank for both

A 29 gallons (110 L) tank holds 6 neon tetras and 1 fancy goldfish at about 68% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.

Other tank mates for neon tetras

Other tank mates for fancy goldfish