Can Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 6, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra 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 200 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Boeseman's Rainbowfish

Melanotaenia boesemani

Glass Bloodfin Tetra

Prionobrama filigera

🐠Family Group
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
Characins
Temperament
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
26–30°C
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
7–8.1
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
6–7.8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
9–19
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
2–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Freshwater Only
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Moderate
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 200 L
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
200 L
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
TopMiddle
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Jumper (Lid Required)
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra?

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.

Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Boeseman's Rainbowfish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Glass Bloodfin Tetra is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Boeseman's Rainbowfish may occasionally assert dominance over Glass Bloodfin Tetra.

Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra 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: Boeseman's Rainbowfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 26°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 27.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 and 7.8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 9–19 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra 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, Plants - Floating. 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

Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra 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 Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra.

Show 5 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra live together?

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

What size tank do Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra 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 Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra together?

Keep the aquarium between 26°C and 28°C. A target of around 27.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Boeseman's Rainbowfish or Glass Bloodfin Tetra aggressive?

Boeseman's Rainbowfish is peaceful (2/10) and Glass Bloodfin Tetra is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Boeseman's Rainbowfish and Glass Bloodfin Tetra need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

Last reviewed
May 6, 2026
Last updated
May 6, 2026
Issues or corrections?
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