Can Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora Live Together?

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

Yes, Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)

Melanoides tuberculata

Red Dwarf Rasbora

Microrasbora rubescens

🐠Family Group
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Invertebrates
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Cyprinids
Temperament
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Peaceful (0/10)
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
18–32°C
Red Dwarf Rasbora
20–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
7–8.5
Red Dwarf Rasbora
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
8–25
Red Dwarf Rasbora
8–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Brackish Tolerant
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Low
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 40 L
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
5 L
Red Dwarf Rasbora
40 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Bottom
Red Dwarf Rasbora
MiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Nocturnal
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora?

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.

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is a peaceful species (0/10), while Red Dwarf Rasbora is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Red Dwarf Rasbora may occasionally assert dominance over Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS).

In terms of spatial distribution, Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Red Dwarf Rasbora occupies the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 20°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 and 8.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 8–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora together, plan for an aquarium of at least 40 litres with a minimum length of 45 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: Sand (Sifters), Soil / Nutrient Rich, Plants - Densely covered. 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

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora 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 Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora.

Show 21 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora live together?

Yes. Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora need?

A minimum of 40 litres (tank length at least 45 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 Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora together?

Keep the aquarium between 20°C and 26°C. A target of around 23.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) or Red Dwarf Rasbora aggressive?

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is peaceful (0/10) and Red Dwarf Rasbora is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Red Dwarf Rasbora need?

Both species overlap in the 7–8.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Does Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) during evening hours.

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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