Can Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 11, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara 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 250 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)

Danio margaritatus

Threadfin Acara

Acarichthys heckelii

🐠Family Group
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Cyprinids
Threadfin Acara
Cichlids - South American
Temperament
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Peaceful (2/10)
Threadfin Acara
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
20–26°C
Threadfin Acara
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
6.5–7.5
Threadfin Acara
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
5–15
Threadfin Acara
1–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Freshwater Only
Threadfin Acara
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Low
Threadfin Acara
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 250 L
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
38 L
Threadfin Acara
250 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
MiddleBottom
Threadfin Acara
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Threadfin Acara
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Territorial (Defends specific area)Fry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara?

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.

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Threadfin Acara
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is a peaceful species (2/10), while Threadfin Acara is generally mild-mannered (4/10). This modest difference means Threadfin Acara may occasionally assert dominance over Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora).

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 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 5–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara together, plan for an aquarium of at least 250 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 - Densely covered, Sand (Sifters), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

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

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara 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 Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara.

Show 1 more tank size

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara live together?

Yes. Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara need?

A minimum of 250 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 Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 26°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) or Threadfin Acara aggressive?

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is peaceful (2/10) and Threadfin Acara is generally mild-mannered (4/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Threadfin Acara need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

How do I manage Threadfin Acara's territorial behaviour?

Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Threadfin Acara 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.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

Last reviewed
May 11, 2026
Last updated
May 11, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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