Can Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) Live Together?

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

Yes, Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) 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 150 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Scissortail Rasbora

Rasbora trilineata

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)

Pristella maxillaris

🐠Family Group
Scissortail Rasbora
Cyprinids
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Characins
Temperament
Scissortail Rasbora
Peaceful (1/10)
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Scissortail Rasbora
22–28°C
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
23–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Scissortail Rasbora
6–8
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
6–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Scissortail Rasbora
2–15
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
2–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Scissortail Rasbora
Freshwater Only
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Scissortail Rasbora
Moderate
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 150 L
Scissortail Rasbora
150 L
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Scissortail Rasbora
TopMiddle
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Scissortail Rasbora
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerNano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Fry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)?

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.

Scissortail Rasbora
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) are peaceful species with an aggression score of 1/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) both frequent the Middle (Open Water) 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: Scissortail Rasbora 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 6 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 150 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. 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.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) 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 Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella).

Show 5 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) live together?

Yes. Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) need?

A minimum of 150 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 Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) 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 Scissortail Rasbora or X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) aggressive?

Scissortail Rasbora is peaceful (1/10) and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Scissortail Rasbora and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) need?

Both species overlap in the 6–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

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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