How Many Tetras Should be Kept Together?

Tetras are tiny, peaceful and colorful and fish. They are one of the most popular species of fish among those who are fond of keeping aquariums or are marine life enthusiasts.

They are absolutely hassle-free to care for and make a great start for first-time “aquarium keepers”. 

If you are planning to set up a tank with these magnificent fish, the first question you need to ask yourself is how many tetras should I be keeping together?

The Tank Size

The most important thing about the number of tetras is the size of the tank. The size of your tank will play a key role in deciding how many of these beautiful color splashes should you be keeping together. 

Tetras grow up to a maximum of 1.5 inches. 

So if you are thinking that they do not require much space, you are right! However as they are required to be put in schools, they automatically need more space.

So if you are planning to get a school of 6 tetras (which is the minimum recommended number), you will need at least 10 gallons of water to house them.

The More, The Merrier

Tetras are schooling fish and therefore they live happily in groups. Therefore, in the case of tetras, the classic rule of THE MORE, THE MERRIER applies literally. 

However, if you are the kind of person who believes in numbers, then a minimum of 6 tetra fish is recommended. 

A figure lower than 6 is considered hazardous for them as they feel threatened if they are not living in a group.

Calculate the Number of Tetras

Here is a simpler calculation of how many tetras you should be keeping together. You should allow 1 gallon of water for every 1 inch of fish length.

This is a basic thumb rule and even a newbie aquarium enthusiast can easily calculate it. 

So if you are planning to keep 10 tetras together, you will need about a 10-gallon fish tank.

Can I Keep More

If you do not wish to follow the thumb rule and are willing to slightly overstock your fish tank with tetras, then it is not entirely possible.

However, in this case, you will need to invest in a really high-quality filter. A good filtration process will make up for the overstocked schools of tetras. 

The tetras do not require much space as they are peaceful but they do need a stable and clean water environment. 

Are 5 Tetras Enough?

Any specimen lower than 6 is dangerous for tetras. Keeping a school with 5 or 4 tetras will make them hostile, not to mention a weaker immune system.