Gold Barb tank mates
Barbodes semifasciolatus
5 rated pairings from the Gold Barb care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Gold Barb needs at least 20 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Excellent matches
3 · Same water, complementary zones, no conflict.
Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Small, peaceful mid-water fish with identical temperature and pH requirements
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Algae-eating bottom-feeder that is docile and prefers similar cool to moderate temperatures
Harlequin Rasbora
Trigonostigma heteromorpha
10 gal min · 2" adult · Peaceful
Similar size, temperament, and water requirements; active schooler that complements barb behavior
Good matches
2 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.
Ramshorn Snail
Planorbarius corneus
5 gal min · 0.75" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful invertebrate that helps with algae control and won't be harmed by barbs
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
15 gal min · 3.5" adult · Semi-aggressive
Peaceful surface-dweller with overlapping temperature range; monitor for any territorial behavior
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.