Can pea puffers live with neon tetras?
❌ Not recommended No, it's not recommended
- ❌ Not recommended Pea puffer is aggressive and will bully peaceful neon tetra.
- ⚠️ Caution Pea puffer may nip at calmer tankmates like neon tetra; keep it in a group of 6+ to spread the nipping within its own school.
- ⚠️ Caution Pea puffer is best kept in a species-only tank: it is nippy and a picky, slow eater.
| Pea puffer | Neon tetra | |
| Temperature | 72–82 °F (22–28 °C) | 70–77 °F (21–25 °C) |
| pH | 6.8–8 | 4–7.5 |
| Adult size | 1.2 in (3 cm) | 1.4 in (3.5 cm) |
| Temperament | Aggressive | Peaceful |
| Swims in | All levels | Middle |
| Minimum tank | 5 gal | 20 gal |
Shared temperature: 72–77 °F (22–25 °C) · Shared pH: 6.8–7.5
If you already have both
- Separate them as soon as possible, or rehome one of them. Use a divider in the meantime.
See all pea puffer tank mates and neon tetra tank mates, or add more species in the checker.
FAQ
Can pea puffers live with neon tetras?
No, it's not recommended. Pea puffer is aggressive and will bully peaceful neon tetra. Pea puffer may nip at calmer tankmates like neon tetra; keep it in a group of 6+ to spread the nipping within its own school.
What temperature for pea puffers and neon tetras?
Pea puffer: 72–82 °F (22–28 °C). Neon tetra: 70–77 °F (21–25 °C). Shared range: 72–77 °F (22–25 °C).
What size tank for pea puffers and neon tetras?
At least 20 US gallons, more as you add fish.
Note: Compatibility depends on individual temperament, tank size, decor and how fish are introduced. Our verdicts use conservative rules applied to published care data (see methodology). They are guidance, not a guarantee. Quarantine new fish and watch for chasing, torn fins or hiding.