Common Platy and Sumatran Barb: can they live together?

Verdict:with caution

  • Behaviour: with caution
  • Water: ranges overlap

Why

The Sumatran barb is a nipper, so this pairing calls for caution. It is calmest when barbs are kept in a school of 8–10 or more. The water suits both species.

Water and size

Water and size
ParameterCommon PlatySumatran BarbShared range
Temperature20 – 28 °C (68 – 82 °F)20 – 26 °C (68 – 79 °F)
20 – 26 °C (68 – 79 °F) ranges overlap
Water pH7 – 8.26 – 8
7 – 8 ranges overlap
Water dH10 – 305 – 20
10 – 20 ranges overlap
Size in aquarium5 – 7 cm (2 – 2.8 in)7 cm (2.8 in)
Required aquarium volumefrom 60 L (16 gal)from 60 L (16 gal)
KeepingMixed (solitary / pair / group)Schooling (usually from 5–6 individuals and more)
TemperamentPeaceful (regular)Peaceful, but may bite fins
Swimming levelnear the surfacemiddle level

This is a general estimate: fish of the same species differ in character. Tank volume is given for each species separately — two species together need at least the larger of the two, and usually more.

Other pairs with these fish