Can Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) 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

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)

Danio margaritatus

Twig Catfish (Farlowella)

Farlowella acus

🐠Family Group
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Cyprinids
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
Catfish
Temperament
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Peaceful (2/10)
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
20–26°C
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
23–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
6.5–7.5
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
6–7.2
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
5–15
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
3–10
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Freshwater Only
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Low
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 132 L
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
38 L
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
MiddleBottom
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)

Behaviour & Temperament

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is a peaceful species (2/10), while Twig Catfish (Farlowella) is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) may occasionally assert dominance over Twig Catfish (Farlowella).

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) 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 23°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7.2. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 80 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, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Established Algae (Otocinclus). 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.

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) live together?

Yes. Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) 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 Twig Catfish (Farlowella) need?

A minimum of 132 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 Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 26°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) or Twig Catfish (Farlowella) aggressive?

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is peaceful (2/10) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.2 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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