Can axolotls live with neon tetras?
Verdict
No
No. Axolotls and neon tetras should not share a tank. Axolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); neon tetras need 72–79°F. No temperature suits both.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAxolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); neon tetras need 72–79°F. No temperature suits both.
- Deal breakerAt 10 inches an axolotl can swallow a 1.5-inch neon tetra whole.
- Deal breakerFish nibble at axolotl gills, and axolotls swallow small fish. Keep axolotls on their own.
What works
- pH 6.5–7 suits both.
- They use different parts of the tank: axolotls the bottom, neon tetras the mid.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Axolotl | Neon tetra | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–66 °F | 72–79 °F |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 6–7 |
| Adult size | 10.0 in | 1.5 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 10 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims at | Bottom | Middle |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 6+ |
| Diet | Carnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for neon tetras
Questions
Can axolotls live with neon tetras?
No. Axolotls and neon tetras should not share a tank. Axolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); neon tetras need 72–79°F. No temperature suits both.
What temperature suits both axolotls and neon tetras?
None. Axolotls need 60–66 °F and neon tetras need 72–79 °F, so the ranges do not meet.
What size tank do axolotls and neon tetras need together?
At least 20 gal, set by the axolotl. Add space for each extra fish.