Can Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) 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 80 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Bloodfin Tetra

Aphyocharax anisitsi

MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)

Melanotaenia maccullochi

🐠Family Group
Bloodfin Tetra
Characins
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Rainbowfish
Temperament
Bloodfin Tetra
Peaceful (2/10)
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Bloodfin Tetra
18–28°C
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
20–30°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Bloodfin Tetra
6–8
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
5.5–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Bloodfin Tetra
5–25
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Bloodfin Tetra
Freshwater Only
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Bloodfin Tetra
Moderate
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 80 L
Bloodfin Tetra
75 L
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
80 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Bloodfin Tetra
TopMiddle
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Bloodfin Tetra
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fin Nipper
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)?

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.

Bloodfin Tetra
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) are peaceful species with an aggression score of 2/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) both frequent the Top (Surface) and 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: Bloodfin Tetra is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 20°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 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.

Tank Setup

To house Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 80 litres with a minimum length of 80 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 - Densely 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.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) 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 Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish).

Show 12 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) live together?

Yes. Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) need?

A minimum of 80 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 Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) together?

Keep the aquarium between 20°C and 28°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Bloodfin Tetra or MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) aggressive?

Bloodfin Tetra is peaceful (2/10) and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Bloodfin Tetra and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) need?

Both species overlap in the 6–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Will Bloodfin Tetra nip MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)'s fins?

Bloodfin Tetra is a known fin nipper. If MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Bloodfin Tetra in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

Last reviewed
May 4, 2026
Last updated
May 4, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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