Can axolotls live with paradise fish?
Verdict
No
No. Axolotls and paradise fish should not share a tank. Fish nibble at axolotl gills, and axolotls swallow small fish. Keep axolotls on their own.
What to watch
- Deal breakerFish nibble at axolotl gills, and axolotls swallow small fish. Keep axolotls on their own.
- Watch outParadise fish nip at slow fish. Axolotls cannot get away.
What works
- Both are fine at 61–66°F.
- pH 6.5–8 suits both.
- They use different parts of the tank: axolotls the bottom, paradise fish the top.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Axolotl | Paradise fish | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–66 °F | 61–79 °F |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 6–8 |
| Adult size | 10.0 in | 3.5 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 20 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Bottom | Top |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | One per tank |
| Diet | Carnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for paradise fish
Questions
Can axolotls live with paradise fish?
No. Axolotls and paradise fish should not share a tank. Fish nibble at axolotl gills, and axolotls swallow small fish. Keep axolotls on their own.
What temperature suits both axolotls and paradise fish?
61–66 °F. Axolotls need 60–66 °F, paradise fish need 61–79 °F.
What size tank do axolotls and paradise fish need together?
At least 20 gal, set by the axolotl. Add space for each extra fish.