Tetras can live with mollies as both of them are peaceful fish, have similar tank requirements, and eat the same type of food. Moreover, the size difference between them is minimal. So they don’t try to eat each other. However, tetras being fin nippers, sometimes nip the fins of mollies.
Let’s talk about this in detail now.
How To Keep Tetras And Mollies Together?
Mollies and tetras can live in the same environment.
In fact, they are considered to be one of the most compatible tank mates for one another.
While both species are entirely peaceful, some mollies and tetras are known to demonstrate a propensity for aggressive behavior from time to time.
This is why you should not presume that every single molly and tetra will get along.
Don’t be shocked if violence ensues between a molly and tetra.
Given below are some of the factors that you should consider for keeping tetras and mollies together.
Size of tetras and mollies.
Tetras are known for their small size. They typically grow to be two inches in length.
They are much smaller than other prominent fish species and a bit easier to care for, making them one of the most popular fish in aquariums everywhere!
Though they’re only 2 inches long, it’s important for beginner aquarists to know that these fish can still be at risk from predators.
This is because many other fish are opportunistic hunters, which means they will take advantage of the other fish if they happen to be smaller than them.
Even if mollies are bigger in size than tetras, the difference is not much.
The majority of male mollies are 3 inches, whereas female mollies can grow up to 6 inches.
If you were to take an average of the sizes, you would see that a lot of mollies tend to fall within the 4-inch mark.
This is why the chances of mollies eating up your tetras are significantly less.
As a rule of thumb, if different fish species show minimal size differences, then they should be able to coexist and get along with one another.
Tank parameters.
Tetras require at least 10 gallons of water, thrive in temperatures between 68°F and 79°F, and prefer a pH from 6.0 to 7.0.
They also prefer planted tanks.
This is because a planted tank provides them with a secure place to hide from any threats in the water.
When it comes to their diet, tetras are omnivorous, so they’re not picky about what you feed them.
You can give them flakes, pellets, dried food, live food, frozen food items, or anything with protein and plant matter.
Basically, tetras are not the most difficult fish to care for. Moreover, none of their requirements conflict with what mollies need.
Similar to tetras, mollies also need at least a 10-gallon tank.
They enjoy planted tanks, love temperatures ranging from 72°F to 78°F, and they’re happy living in water with a pH of 6.7 to 8.5.
Mollies are also omnivores and so prefer to eat the same food as tetras.
Moreover, mollies prefer to live in slightly brackish water.
So you need to add some salt to your fish tank. However, this should not cause any discomfort to your tetras.
Basically, tetras and mollies need the same tank conditions.
This is important because if you pair fish that need different tank parameters, it could be deadly for them.
Recommended Further Reading:
- Why Do Tetras Die? (13 Primary Reasons)
- Why Do Tetras Chase Each Other? + How To Stop Them?
- Why Do Tetras Swim Upside Down? (Is It Normal For Tetras?)
Number of tetras and mollies.
Mollies are usually peaceful fish that prefer to be kept in groups of at least five.
However, male mollies are not as peaceful as female mollies. They may fight with each other to establish a hierarchy within their community.
Less number of female mollies can also make male mollies aggressive.
However, if you keep them in groups and maintain the proper ratio of male-to-female mollies, they will live peacefully.
They will be active, social, and more than willing to tolerate the presence of other species.
Tetras are also quite friendly and tend to get along peacefully with other species of fish, including mollies.
However, they should also be kept in small schools because they do best when there are plenty of them around.
However, tetras are often fin nippers. Nonetheless, what people don’t realize is that they don’t always behave like this.
So, their temperament is generally well suited for mollies.
Can Neon Tetras Live With Mollies?
Mollies and neon tetras are unlikely to harm one another.
It’s possible for a fish to become aggressive towards its tank mates, but it is not likely to occur in the case of neon tetras and mollies.
Neon tetras can live with mollies because both prefer similar water parameters such as temperature and pH level. In addition, the small size differences between these two fish often prevent instances of violence between them. Mollies are known to be very friendly with other types of fish like tetras.
While it is true that mollies can eat neon tetras if they choose to, it’s unlikely to happen in a home aquarium setting.
The peaceful nature of both species creates an ecosystem in which all the inhabitants are likely to feel secure.
If your tetras are well fed, they won’t have a desire to attack and eat your mollies.
The same is true for mollies as well. However, in certain instances, your tetras can nibble the fins of some of your mollies.
Can Glofish Tetras Live With Mollies?
Glofish tetras can live with mollies. Glofish tetras like to have live-bearing fish like mollies as tank mates. Besides, they have the same temperament as mollies, and their water requirements are also the same. A school of 6 or more glofish tetras makes for the best company for your Mollies.
However, do keep in mind that glofish tetras need to be in a group of 5 or more.
Otherwise, they can get aggressive and nip fins of other fish.
Can Black Skirt Tetras Live With Mollies?
Black skirt tetras can live with mollies. However, mollies are livebearers. So, they’ll fill up your tank very fast, resulting in overstocking.
Moreover, black skirt tetras won’t eat the mollies as they are docile fish.
They like to eat insects and worms, but they won’t turn down anything you feed them.
Can Black Mollies Live With Neon Tetras?
Yes, black mollies can live with neon tetras.
Even though they prefer a slightly salted water environment, they are good tank mates for neon tetras.
Can All Tetras Live With Black Molies?
Yes, tetras can live with black mollies. Black Mollies are peaceful, community fish.
They get on well with other mollies, guppies, danios, swordtails, tetras, and many other fish.
Some aquarists have also successfully kept mollies with swordtails, platies, and betta fish.
Since mollies are peaceful by nature, they don’t chase small fish like tetras.
