Can Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 2, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 200 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Bleher's Rainbowfish

Chilatherina bleheri

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)

Melanoides tuberculata

🐠Family Group
Bleher's Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Invertebrates
Temperament
Bleher's Rainbowfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Bleher's Rainbowfish
24–29°C
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
18–32°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Bleher's Rainbowfish
7–8
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Bleher's Rainbowfish
5–15
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
8–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Bleher's Rainbowfish
Freshwater Only
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Bleher's Rainbowfish
Moderate
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 200 L
Bleher's Rainbowfish
200 L
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
5 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Bleher's Rainbowfish
TopMiddle
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Bleher's Rainbowfish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Nocturnal
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Bleher's Rainbowfish
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Bleher's Rainbowfish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Bleher's Rainbowfish may occasionally assert dominance over Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS).

In terms of spatial distribution, Bleher's Rainbowfish prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) 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: Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Bleher's Rainbowfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 29°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.5°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 Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 200 litres with a minimum length of 120 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

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 - lighly covered, Sand (Sifters), Soil / Nutrient Rich. 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.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS).

Show 5 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) live together?

Yes. Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) need?

A minimum of 200 litres (tank length at least 120 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 Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 29°C. A target of around 26.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Bleher's Rainbowfish or Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) aggressive?

Bleher's Rainbowfish is peaceful (2/10) and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Bleher's Rainbowfish and Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) need?

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

Does Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) during evening hours.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 2, 2026
Last updated
May 2, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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