Can platies live with lemon tetras?

Verdict
Yes

Yes. Platies and lemon tetras get along in the same tank. Both are fine at 72–80°F. Plan on at least 15 gal.

PlatyPlaty70–80°F · pH 7–8.2 Lemon tetraLemon tetra72–82°F · pH 5.5–7.5

Why it works

Water side by side

55°60°65°70°75°80°85°90°Both: 72–80°Platy 70–80°Lemon tetra 72–82°
The green band is the temperature range both can live in.
456789Both: 7–7.5Platy 7–8.2Lemon tetra 5.5–7.5
The green band is the pH both tolerate.

Size to scale

Platy · 2.5 inLemon tetra · 2 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

PlatyLemon tetra
Temperature70–80 °F72–82 °F
pH7–8.25.5–7.5
Adult size2.5 in2.0 in
Minimum tank10 gal15 gal
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swims atMiddleMiddle
GroupGroups of 3+Groups of 6+
DietOmnivoreOmnivore

Better tank mates for platies

All platy tank mates

Better tank mates for lemon tetras

All lemon tetra tank mates

Questions

Can platies live with lemon tetras?

Yes. Platies and lemon tetras get along in the same tank. Both are fine at 72–80°F. Plan on at least 15 gal.

What temperature suits both platies and lemon tetras?

72–80 °F. Platies need 70–80 °F, lemon tetras need 72–82 °F.

What size tank do platies and lemon tetras need together?

At least 15 gal, set by the lemon tetra. Add space for each extra fish.