Can Ruby Tetra Live With Silver Hatchetfish?

Ruby Tetra and Silver Hatchetfish CAN coexist, but with some risks. Careful setup and monitoring required.

Detailed Analysis

Temperature ✓ Compatible

Good temperature overlap at 74–82°F.

pH ✓ Compatible

Good pH overlap at 5.5–7.0.

Size ⚠ Use Caution

Significant size difference (2.5" vs 0.7"). Silver Hatchetfish may bully or stress Ruby Tetra.

Temperament ✓ Compatible

Both fish have compatible temperaments.

Swim Level ✓ Compatible

Fish occupy different water levels (Ruby Tetra: middle, Silver Hatchetfish: top), reducing conflict.

Important Notes

  • Ruby Tetra is a schooling fish and needs at least 8 of its kind.
  • Silver Hatchetfish is a schooling fish and needs at least 6 of its kind.

Tank Requirements

Minimum tank size for this combination: 20 gallons

ParameterRuby TetraSilver Hatchetfish
Temperature68–82°F74–83°F
pH5–75.5–7
Max Size0.7"2.5"
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swim LevelMiddleTop
Min Tank5 gal20 gal

Check More Combinations

Use our compatibility checker to add more fish and plan your complete tank.