Can Black Skirt Tetra and Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) Live Together?

Black Skirt Tetra is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Black Skirt Tetra may occasionally assert dominance over Dojo Loach (Weather Loach).

In terms of spatial distribution, Black Skirt Tetra prefers the Middle (Open Water) zone, whereas Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 20°C and 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 22.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 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 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Black Skirt Tetra and Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 240 litres with a minimum length of 120 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: Plants - Densely covered, Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Black Skirt Tetra's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

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