Checkered Barb tank mates
Oliotius oligolepis
5 rated pairings from the Checkered Barb care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Checkered Barb needs at least 15 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Excellent matches
3 · Same water, complementary zones, no conflict.
Emerald Dwarf Rasbora
Danio erythromicron
10 gal min · 1" adult · Peaceful
Similar size, peaceful temperament, and identical water parameter requirements make them ideal schooling companions
Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Small, peaceful community fish with overlapping temperature and pH preferences; adds color variety
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful algae-eater that occupies bottom zone and shares identical water conditions without competing for food
Good matches
2 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
15 gal min · 3.5" adult · Semi-aggressive
Peaceful gourami that occupies different water zones; ensure adequate space to prevent territorial disputes
Red Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
5 gal min · 1.2" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful invertebrate that helps with algae control; barbs may occasionally nip at shrimp, but generally compatible in planted tanks
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.