Freshwater Pipefish tank mates
Doryichthys martensii
6 rated pairings from the Freshwater Pipefish care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Freshwater Pipefish needs at least 20 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Excellent matches
3 · Same water, complementary zones, no conflict.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful bottom dweller that won't compete for food or harass pipefish
Red Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
5 gal min · 1.2" adult · Peaceful
Shares similar food sources and won't harass pipefish; helps maintain water quality
Anubias Nana
Anubias barteri var. nana
Provides shelter and anchoring points for pipefish to use their prehensile tails
Good matches
3 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.
German Blue Ram
Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
20 gal min · 3" adult · Peaceful
Calm cichlid with similar temperature needs; avoid during breeding season
Emerald Dwarf Rasbora
Danio erythromicron
10 gal min · 1" adult · Peaceful
Small, gentle schooler that won't outcompete pipefish for micro-foods
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
10 gal min · 2" adult · Peaceful
Larger shrimp that coexists peacefully; may compete slightly for food
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.