Can Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater Live Together?
Yes, Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater 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
Behaviour & Temperament
Black Skirt Tetra is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Siamese Algae Eater is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Black Skirt Tetra may occasionally assert dominance over Siamese Algae Eater.
Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater both frequent the Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.
Worth noting: Siamese Algae Eater is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°C) for optimal comfort.
Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. 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.
Tank Setup
To house Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 90 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, Established Algae (Otocinclus), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - lighly covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater live together?▾
Yes. Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.
What size tank do Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater need?▾
A minimum of 132 litres (tank length at least 90 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 Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater together?▾
Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 26°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Black Skirt Tetra or Siamese Algae Eater aggressive?▾
Black Skirt Tetra is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Siamese Algae Eater is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Black Skirt Tetra and Siamese Algae Eater need?▾
Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
Will Black Skirt Tetra nip Siamese Algae Eater's fins?▾
Black Skirt Tetra is a known fin nipper. If Siamese Algae Eater has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Black Skirt Tetra in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.
How do I manage Siamese Algae Eater's territorial behaviour?▾
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Siamese Algae Eater space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.
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