What Fish Can Goldfish Live With (17 Amazing Tankmates List)

Do you want a new, diverse fish tank for your home aquarium? Or you’ve heard that goldfish like companionship and would benefit from living with other fish. Either way, if you’re wondering what fish can goldfish live with, this is the post for you.

Find out what fish can live with goldfish, and Plan to create a beautiful and thriving ecosystem where Goldie and various friends can coexist happily!

Can You Mix Goldfish with Other Fish?

Yes, goldfish can live with other fish if their needs are considered. Goldfish are okay with what they share an aquarium with, but some conditions must be met for the best cohabitation.

First, goldfish can be rather messy eaters and cause water quality to drop. This means they should never share a tank with tropical fish, as these species prefer clean, warm conditions.

Secondly, many other types of fish we’ll look at in this post have similar needs—they all enjoy colder temperatures and plenty of space.

Finally, goldfish are notorious fin-nippers. So it’s essential to select tankmates that can hold their own should any fights break out. With these points in mind, let’s look at 15 fantastic fish that work as perfect goldfish tank mates!

What Fish Can Goldfish Live With?

What type of fish can live with goldfish? Goldfish can be kept with various fish that thrive in cooler temperatures and are similarly sized.

What Fish Can I Put with My Goldfish? Some good tank mates for your goldfish include weather loaches, danios, white cloud mountain minnows, bristle nose plecos, bamboo shrimp, and various species of other freshwater snails.

When choosing fancy goldfish tank mates, selecting species that are peaceful and not likely to become aggressive toward one another is essential.

By carefully selecting a good goldfish tank mates, you can ensure a happy, healthy, and safe environment for your fish!

Tank conditions for fish to live with goldfish

Fishkeeping can be a challenging hobby to get into. You need to know many things to keep your fish healthy and happy. Many people give up on fishkeeping because they think it’s too hard or needs more information.

We’re here to help. We’ve compiled a list of the primary tank conditions for fish to live with goldfish. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to creating a healthy and happy home for your fish.

Live In the Same Temperature Range

Goldfish prefer water temperatures of around 65-75°F (18-24°C). This temperature range is a comfortable one for most other fish.

However, some species may need slightly cooler or warmer temperatures—so make sure to research the specific needs of your tank mates before adding them to the goldfish aquarium.

Fish That Are Too Big to Get Eaten

Goldfish can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length and have a large appetite. So, selecting tank mates that are too big for hungry and curious goldfish to swallow is crucial.

This doesn’t mean you need to fill your aquarium only with large species—but do avoid any fish smaller than 1 inch (2.5 cm).

Choose Fish That Have a Peaceful Temperament

Goldfish can be territorial, so avoiding any aggressive fish is best. Select species that are more docile and won’t pick fights with each other or the goldfish.

It’s also worth adding some peaceful freshwater fish for your goldfish to interact with—as this can reduce their aggression toward other tank mates.

Matching Activity Levels

Goldfish have a slow and steady swimming style, so it’s best to choose fish that swim at similar speeds. Too many speedy species can intimidate the goldfish and cause them stress.

For example, goldfish are a great match with other slower-moving fish, like Corydoras catfish or gouramis. On the other hand, if you want to add some zest to your tank, you could try species like guppies or platies.

15 Best Goldfish Tank Mates List

What fish can you mix with goldfish? Now let’s look at the 15 best fish to keep with goldfish! These species are easy to care for and make great tank mates for Goldie.

1. Giant Danios

Giant Danios are a species of fish that can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length. They have an active swimming style and prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). They’re peaceful and make great tank mates for goldfish, as they’re too big to get eaten.

2. White Cloud Mountain Minnows

White Cloud Mountain Minnow is a small schooling fish reaching up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length. They’re peaceful and active, preferring temperatures of around 65-75°F (18-24°C). They make great tank mates for goldfish, as they’re too small to be a threat.

3. Checker Barbs

Checker Barbs are an active schooling species that can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. They require temperatures of around 68-77°F (20-25°C). They’re peaceful and make great tank mates for goldfish as they have a slow swimming style.

4. Zebra Danios (Danio rerio)

Zebra Danios are an active schooling species that can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length. They prefer water temperatures of around 65-75°F (18-24°C). They’re peaceful and make great tank mates for goldfish, as they’re too small to be a threat.

5. Japanese Rice Fish

Japanese Rice Fish are small fish that can reach up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length. They prefer water temperatures of around 65-77°F (18-25°C). They’re peaceful and make great tank mates for goldfish, as they’re too small to be a threat.

6. Banded Corydoras (Scleromystax Barbatus)

Banded Corydoras are bottom-dwelling fish species that can reach up to 2.5 inches (6 cm) in length. They require temperatures of around 68-77°F (20-25°C) and prefer to live in groups. They’re peaceful and make great tank mates for goldfish as they have a slow swimming style.

7. Tiger Barbs (Puntius tetrazona)

Tiger Barbs are a species of fish that can reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length. They require temperatures of around 68-77°F (20-25°C) and prefer to live in groups. They’re semi-aggressive but can make good tank mates for goldfish if they’re not kept in large numbers.

8. Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras Catfish are a bottom-dwelling fish species that can reach up to 2.5 inches (6 cm) in length. They require temperatures of around 68-77°F (20-25°C) and prefer to live in groups. They’re peaceful and make great tank mates for goldfish as they have a slow swimming style.

9. Bloodfin Tetra (Aphyocharax anisitsi)

Bloodfin Tetras are small schooling species that can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length. They prefer temperatures of around 68-77°F (20-25°C). They’re peaceful and make great tank mates for goldfish, as they’re too small to be a threat.

10. Weather Loach (aka Dojo Loach)

Weather Loaches are a species of fish that can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. They prefer temperatures of around 68-77°F (20-25°C). They’re peaceful and make great tank mates for goldfish as they have a slow swimming style.

11. Bristlenose Pleco

Bristlenose Plecos are a type of small freshwater fish native to South America. They are sometimes called “lucky bamboo cats” because they have fleshy protrusions resembling whiskers on their sides. These plecos can be kept in tanks alongside goldfish as long as the tank is well-maintained.

12. Cherry Shrimp

Cherry Shrimp is a popular freshwater aquarium species suitable for many home tanks. These strikingly colorful fish can make fantastic tank mates for goldfish; they will use the goldfish waste to scavenge and clean up the aquarium while avoiding being eaten by their larger fish tankmates, thanks to their small size.

Cherry shrimp also add color, activity, and interest to your tank! They prefer slightly acidic conditions, with temperatures between 66-77 degrees Fahrenheit (18-25 Celsius) with a moderate level of water flow to stay healthy.

13. Hillstream Loach

Hillstream Loaches are fascinating bottom dwellers that can be kept with goldfish in an aquarium. They have a unique body shape and are usually found in well-oxygenated, fast-moving streams and rivers.

They eat frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms, but they also need algae to graze on throughout their lifetime. Hillstream Loaches should not be housed with aggressive fish or territorial species as they may become stressed or injured if attacked.

When setting up your aquarium for them, it is important to include lots of rocks for hiding areas and provide plenty of aeration, so the tank has adequate oxygen levels for them to thrive.

14. Rosy Barbs (Pethia conchonius)

Rosy Barbs (Pethia conchonius) are a popular freshwater fish species commonly kept in aquariums. They originate from South Asia and tend to be quite hardy fish, quickly adapting to different water parameters.

As far as tank mates go, Rosy Barbs can do well with other peaceful fish, such as goldfish and some other barbs.

Although they may nip at the fins of slower-moving or long-finned species such as Guppies and fancy Goldfish varieties, it is best to avoid them when housing these types of fishes together.

In general, Rosy Barbs should be kept in an aquarium with plenty of swimming room (at least 10 gallons for every two adult Rosy Barbs). When given adequate space and care, these beautiful fish will add a sparkle to any established community tank!

15. Hoplo Catfish

Hoplo Catfish, also known as Hoplosternum littorale, is a freshwater fish often seen swimming with goldfish. This species originates from the Amazon Basin in South America and prefers warm, slow-moving waters.

They are usually found in tiny fish schools at the bottom of these habitats, where they feed off aquatic plant matter and insects. These fish have a unique circular shape with long spines down their back, giving them an almost porcupine-like appearance.

16. Mystery Snails

Mystery snails are tiny, tropical freshwater invertebrates often kept as part of an aquarium community. They’re peaceful, attractive creatures that are relatively easy to care for and can be very therapeutic.

When kept with goldfish, however, they can be susceptible to being eaten or having their shells nibbled away by the larger fish.

It’s essential to provide plenty of hiding places for them and feed them before you feed the goldfish so that they have time to eat without worry of predation from the other fish.

17. Bristlenose Pleco Catfish (Ancistrus sp.)

Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp.) are peaceful and hardy addition to freshwater tanks. They are an excellent choice for goldfish tanks, as the plecos need a small area of vegetative cover, while goldfish prefer open water.

This combination provides the best of both worlds and makes it easier for aquarists to keep a balanced tank environment.

The Bristlenose Plecos can reach up to 6 inches in length and prefers temperatures between 72-78 degrees Fahrenheit with a pH level around 6-7. These fish require frequent feedings of sinking tablets, blanched vegetables, algae wafers, or occasional live foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.

They also require robust filtration systems due to their higher waste production than most other fish species. These plecos make great additions to any tank, especially when kept with goldfish!

Bamboo shrimp (Extra Choice)

Bamboo shrimp, also known as Wood or Vampire Shrimp, can make a great goldfish tank mate. They are hardy and peaceful creatures that help keep the tank clean by sifting through debris in search of food.

Bamboo shrimps require frequent water changes and may become shy if not correctly cared for, so they should be kept in an aquarium with ample swimming space and plenty of hiding spots.

As omnivores, they will happily eat anything from algae pellets to frozen bloodworms and even veggie wafers!

Can Goldfish Live with Tropical Fish?

Can you mix goldfish with tropical fish? Goldfish are coldwater fish, and tropical fish require warm water temperatures, so they should generally not be kept together.

However, you can keep both types of fish in the same tank if you provide the appropriate temperature range for each species and use an effective filtration system to maintain good water quality.

In addition, stick with similar fish in size and temperament to prevent aggression. Proper care makes it possible to keep both goldfish and tropical fish successfully in the same aquarium!

Can Goldfish Live with Other Goldfish?

Goldfish can be kept together with other goldfish if you provide enough room for each fish to swim.

It is important to note that goldfish are social creatures and may become stressed if they are kept in a tank too small or have inadequate hiding places.

In addition, when keeping multiple goldfish in the same tank, ensure adequate filtration and regular water changes to maintain a healthy environment.

Goldfish Tank Size

The larger the goldfish tank size, the better; a single fancy goldfish should have at least a 10-gallon aquarium, and each additional fish requires an extra gallon of water for them to live comfortably.

You will need even more space for common goldfish – at least 20 gallons per fish. With adequate space, you can provide plenty of hiding places and room for the goldfish to swim around.

In addition, having a larger tank will make it easier to maintain good water quality with proper filtration and regular water changes.

Keeping your goldfish in an appropriately sized aquarium will help keep them healthy and happy!

Can Goldfish Live with Guppies?

Can goldfish and guppies live together? Guppies and goldfish make a surprisingly harmonious aquascape when present together in the same tank.

To ensure they thrive side-by-side, the temperature must be carefully managed at around 72 – 74°F—which would feel warm to any finned friend of the guppy variety yet cool enough for their more lowkey neighbor!

Can Tetras Live with Goldfish?

Goldfish and tetras in same tank? While the two species can coexist, providing each one with its ideal environment is essential.

Tetras require warmer water temperatures than goldfish and like to school together in groups of six or more. Depending on the size and temperament of your goldfish, they may be aggressive towards schooling tetras and disrupt the group dynamic.

In addition, tetras are much smaller than goldfish and require frequent water changes to stay healthy, so a larger aquarium is necessary when considering this community. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a peaceful tank full of goldfish and tetras!

Do Goldfish Need 2 or 3?

It is best to keep at least two goldfish in a tank, as they are social animals that need companionship from their species. Keeping more than two goldfish in the same tank also helps spread out aggression and other forms of stress.

Additionally, having multiple fish allows them to thrive in a larger environment, whereas having only one fish can cause stress due to being confined to a limited space.

Moreover, you should ensure the tank has plenty of rocks, plants, or decorations, so your goldfish have enough places to hide and explore.

Will Goldfish Survive in My Fish Tank?

The short answer is yes! Goldfish are very hardy fish that can survive in various water conditions.

However, to ensure your goldfish thrive and remain healthy in their new home, you must provide the tank is cycled correctly and has the proper temperature range for each species.

You must also use a good filter and regularly change the water to keep the aquarium clean and clear. With these basic requirements in place, you can be sure that your goldfish will have a happy home!

Can You Put Catfish with Goldfish?

With their small adult size under 4 inches long, Corydoras catfish can be ideal companions for peaceful varieties of fancy little goldfish.

When adding catfish to a goldfish tank, you should ensure the water temperature is suitable for both species and provide plenty of hiding places so that they can coexist peacefully.

It’s also important to remember that corydoras enjoy having their own company and should be added to groups of at least three or four. With the right conditions and tankmates, a goldfish and corydoras aquarium can create a beautiful display.

What Fish Can Live with Goldfish in a Pond?

What fishes can live with goldfish in ponds? You can keep a variety of fish in your pond with goldfish, including Koi, Rosy red minnows, Orfe, bristle nose plecos, Weather loaches, and Longfin rosy barbs.

These are suitable companions for goldfish as they require similar water parameters and diets. However, it’s important to note that some of these species may grow larger than the goldfish, so you should plan accordingly when stocking your pond.

Also, make sure to alter the number of fish in the pond depending on its size to avoid overcrowding.

Fantail Goldfish Tank Mates list:

Fantail goldfish are peaceful, slow-swimming fish that do best when kept in a tank with other mild-mannered species. The following list of compatible tank mates is the perfect combination for an aquarium full of finned friends:

• White Cloud Mountain Minnow
• Celestial Pearl Danios
• Neon Tetras
• Platies
• Otocinclus Catfish
• Black Skirt Tetras
• Harlequin Rasboras
• Dwarf Gouramis
• Cherry Barbs

For the best results, choose suitable fancy goldfish tank mates of similar sizes and temperaments as your fantail goldfish. You can create a stunning and peaceful community aquarium with the proper selection!

Oranda Goldfish Tank Mates

Orandas are peaceful, slow-moving fish that get along with various compatible tank mates. Here is a list of suitable species for an oranda goldfish tank mates:

• Plecostomus
• White Cloud Mountain Minnows
• Celestial Pearl Danios
• Neon Tetras
• Platies
• Otocinclus Catfish
• Harlequin Rasboras
• Dwarf Gouramis
• Cherry Barbs

Commonly Asked Questions about Which Fishes Can Live with Goldfish (FAQ)

Conclusion

Now that you know a little more about what fish can goldfish live with, you can make a more informed decision when stocking your aquarium. Be sure to research any new fish before adding them to your tank, and always consult with a professional if you have any questions or concerns. You can create a healthy and happy environment for your fish with proper care and maintenance.

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