Can Ember Tetra live with Swordtail?
Caution — with care
Why
- No overlapping water hardness: Ember Tetra wants 1–8 dGH but Swordtail wants 12–30 dGH.
- Very different sizes (Swordtail 5.5" vs Ember Tetra 0.8") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
- Only a narrow pH overlap — keep both around 7–7.
- Swordtail is semi-aggressive — give the peaceful Ember Tetra plenty of space, cover and broken sight lines.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–82°F and pH 7–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Ember Tetra | Swordtail | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–82°F | 72–82°F |
| pH | 5.5–7 | 7–8.4 |
| Hardness (GH) | 1–8 dGH | 12–30 dGH |
| Adult size | 0.8" | 5.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 29 gal |
Together, plan on at least 29 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Use a larger, well-decorated tank with sightline breaks, keep everyone well-fed, and add the calmer fish first.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser · A larger tank
Where to buy
- Ember Tetra: buy at The Shrimp Farm · The Shrimp Farm live-arrival guarantee
Live-animal shipping: add a heat pack below 50°F, expect weather holds above 90°F, and schedule delivery for a moderate week when someone can receive it promptly.
Design the whole tank, not just the stocking
Skapelab plans a complete, buildable planted aquarium around your fish — a hand-illustrated layout, the exact plants and hardscape, a placement map, and a full equipment and shopping list. Free.
Design a tank with Ember Tetra, Swordtail →Everything compatible with Ember Tetra · …with Swordtail