Can Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Rummy-Nose Tetra Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Rummy-Nose Tetra together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 240 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)

Misgurnus anguillicaudatus

Rummy-Nose Tetra

Hemigrammus rhodostomus

🐠Family Group
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Loaches
Rummy-Nose Tetra
Characins
Temperament
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Peaceful (2/10)
Rummy-Nose Tetra
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
10–24°C
Rummy-Nose Tetra
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
6.5–8
Rummy-Nose Tetra
5.5–7
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
5–15
Rummy-Nose Tetra
1–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Freshwater Only
Rummy-Nose Tetra
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Moderate
Rummy-Nose Tetra
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 240 L
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
200 L
Rummy-Nose Tetra
75 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Bottom
Rummy-Nose Tetra
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerSnail EaterPlant Destroyer
Rummy-Nose Tetra
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry PredatorNano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)

Behaviour & Temperament

Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) is a peaceful species (2/10), while Rummy-Nose Tetra is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) may occasionally assert dominance over Rummy-Nose Tetra.

Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Rummy-Nose Tetra both frequent the 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.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

Worth noting: Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7. 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. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Rummy-Nose Tetra together, plan for an aquarium of at least 240 litres with a minimum length of 120 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - lighly covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Rummy-Nose Tetra's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

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 Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Rummy-Nose Tetra live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 240 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Rummy-Nose Tetra need?

A minimum of 240 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 Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Rummy-Nose Tetra together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 24°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) or Rummy-Nose Tetra aggressive?

Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) is peaceful (2/10) and Rummy-Nose Tetra is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Rummy-Nose Tetra need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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