Can neon tetras live with apistogramma?

Verdict
Yes

Yes, neon tetras and apistogramma can live together. Both are fine at 75–79°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

Neon tetraNeon tetra72–79°F · pH 6–7 ApistogrammaApistogramma75–84°F · pH 5–7

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 75–79°Neon tetra 72–79°Apistogramma 75–84°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 6–7Neon tetra 6–7Apistogramma 5–7
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Neon tetra · 1.5 inApistogramma · 3 in0"1"2"3"4"5"6"
Adult length in an aquarium. A fish can swallow anything that fits in its mouth, roughly a third to half its own length for predators.

Care at a glance

Neon tetraApistogramma
Temperature72–79 °F75–84 °F
pH6–75–7
Adult size1.5 in3.0 in
Minimum tank10 gal20 gal
TemperamentPeacefulSemi-aggressive
Swims atMiddleBottom
GroupGroups of 6+Alone or in pairs
DietOmnivoreCarnivore

Better tank mates for neon tetras

All neon tetra tank mates

Better tank mates for apistogramma

All apistogramma tank mates

Questions

Can neon tetras live with apistogramma?

Yes, neon tetras and apistogramma can live together. Both are fine at 75–79°F. Plan on at least 20 gal.

What temperature suits both neon tetras and apistogramma?

75–79 °F. Neon tetras need 72–79 °F, apistogramma need 75–84 °F.

What size tank do neon tetras and apistogramma need together?

At least 20 gal, set by the apistogramma. Add space for each extra fish.