Can Polka Dot Loach Live With Red Phantom Tetra?
Polka Dot Loach and Red Phantom Tetra CAN coexist, but with some risks. Careful setup and monitoring required.
Detailed Analysis
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Good temperature overlap at 75–82°F.
pH
✓ Compatible
Good pH overlap at 6.0–7.0.
Size
⚠ Use Caution
Significant size difference (5" vs 1.5"). Polka Dot Loach may bully or stress Red Phantom Tetra.
Temperament
✓ Compatible
Both fish have compatible temperaments.
Swim Level
✓ Compatible
Fish occupy different water levels (Polka Dot Loach: bottom, Red Phantom Tetra: middle), reducing conflict.
Important Notes
- Polka Dot Loach is a schooling fish and needs at least 5 of its kind.
- Red Phantom Tetra is a schooling fish and needs at least 6 of its kind.
Tank Requirements
Minimum tank size for this combination: 38 gallons
| Parameter | Polka Dot Loach | Red Phantom Tetra |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–82°F | 72–82°F |
| pH | 6–7 | 5.5–7 |
| Max Size | 5" | 1.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swim Level | Bottom | Middle |
| Min Tank | 30 gal | 15 gal |
Check More Combinations
Use our compatibility checker to add more fish and plan your complete tank.