Can Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail 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

Congo Tetra

Phenacogrammus interruptus

Ramshorn Snail

Planorbidae fam.

🐠Family Group
Congo Tetra
Characins
Ramshorn Snail
Invertebrates
Temperament
Congo Tetra
Peaceful (2/10)
Ramshorn Snail
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Congo Tetra
23–28°C
Ramshorn Snail
15–30°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Congo Tetra
6–7.5
Ramshorn Snail
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Congo Tetra
3–18
Ramshorn Snail
8–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Congo Tetra
Freshwater Only
Ramshorn Snail
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Congo Tetra
Moderate
Ramshorn Snail
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 132 L
Congo Tetra
110 L
Ramshorn Snail
5 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Congo Tetra
MiddleTop
Ramshorn Snail
BottomMiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Congo Tetra
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Jumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Ramshorn Snail
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)

Behaviour & Temperament

Congo Tetra is a peaceful species (2/10), while Ramshorn Snail is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Congo Tetra may occasionally assert dominance over Ramshorn Snail.

Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) 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: Congo Tetra is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 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 8–18 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 90 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, Plants - Floating, Established Algae (Otocinclus). 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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail live together?

Yes. Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail need?

A minimum of 132 litres (tank length at least 90 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 Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Congo Tetra or Ramshorn Snail aggressive?

Congo Tetra is peaceful (2/10) and Ramshorn Snail is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Congo Tetra and Ramshorn Snail need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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