Can Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 132 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Assassin Snail

Clea helena

Rosy Barb

Pethia conchonius

🐠Family Group
Assassin Snail
Invertebrates
Rosy Barb
Cyprinids
Temperament
Assassin Snail
Peaceful (2/10)
Rosy Barb
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
22–28°C
Rosy Barb
18–25°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
7–8
Rosy Barb
6–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
8–15
Rosy Barb
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
Freshwater Only
Rosy Barb
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
Low
Rosy Barb
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 132 L
Assassin Snail
10 L
Rosy Barb
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Assassin Snail
Bottom
Rosy Barb
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Assassin Snail
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Snail EaterDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Rosy Barb
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFin NipperAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Plant Destroyer

Behaviour & Temperament

Assassin Snail is a peaceful species (2/10), while Rosy Barb is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Rosy Barb may occasionally assert dominance over Assassin Snail.

Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 8–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 80 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb live together?

Yes. Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb need?

A minimum of 132 litres (tank length at least 80 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 25°C. A target of around 23.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Assassin Snail or Rosy Barb aggressive?

Assassin Snail is peaceful (2/10) and Rosy Barb is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Assassin Snail and Rosy Barb need?

Both species overlap in the 7–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Will Rosy Barb nip Assassin Snail's fins?

Rosy Barb is a known fin nipper. If Assassin Snail has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Rosy Barb in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.


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