Tankmate compatibility

What fish are compatible with Goldfish?

Goldfish compatibility guide. 5 compatible tankmates + 5 species to avoid + temperament + size + water-chemistry guidance.

Compatible tankmates (5)

Other goldfish

Best companions are other goldfish of similar size + body type. Mix fancy + fancy, single-tail + single-tail.

Dojo loach (weather loach)

Coldwater bottom dweller, peaceful, eats leftover food.

Hillstream loach

Coldwater algae eater, peaceful, prefers cool fast-flow water.

Apple snail

Coldwater snail; large enough not to be eaten.

White cloud minnows

Coldwater schooling fish, peaceful, fits goldfish parameters.

Avoid these tankmates (5)

Tropical fish (any)

Goldfish need 65-72°F; tropicals need 76-82°F. Mismatch kills both.

Plecos

Plecos suck slime coat off goldfish at night. Kills goldfish slowly.

Cichlids

Aggressive + hot-water requirement.

Bettas

Tropical + delicate fins.

Small tetras + rasboras

Goldfish eat anything that fits in their mouth.

Plan your stocking

Use the stocking calculator to verify your specific plan. Browse stocking ideas by tank size for proven setups, or read the Goldfish care guide for full husbandry details.

More compatibility guides

Browse all tankmate guides.