Dwarf Puffer Tank Mates: Choose These Best Fish for Your Puffers

Some good choices for compatible dwarf puffer tank mates include other small fish such as danios, otocinclus, neon tetras, and cherry shrimp. Dwarf puffers are not typically aggressive towards other fish but eat invertebrates. 

Choose a compatible tank mate if you want to keep dwarf puffers, especially in a community tank. Additionally, dwarf puffers can be very messy fish, so choosing a large enough tank to move around without feeling cramped is essential.

The Best Tank Mates for Dwarf Puffers

Zebra Danios (Danio rerio)

Zebra Danios are an excellent choice as a dwarf puffer’s tank mate because they like the same type of water and hide spots. Additionally, danios are fast swimmers and can keep up with the pea puffs when chasing down food.

Otocinclus

Otocinclus are another excellent choice as a tank mate for pea puffers. Like danios, they like the same water and hiding spots but also have several adaptations that make them useful in a dwarf puffer’s environment. For example, otocinclus are active fish and can entertain your pea puffs with antics. Additionally, otocinclus will eat small invertebrates that might be food for your pea puffers.

Pygmy and Panda Corys (Corydoras pygmaeus and Corydoras panda)

Pygmy and panda corys are also good tank mates for pea puffers. They prefer a similar water environment to the dwarf puffer and some hiding spots. Plus, these fish are active and playful, so your pea puffs will have plenty of fun.

Chili Rasboras (Boraras brigittae)

Rasboras are another excellent choice as a tank mate for pea puffs. They like the same water and hiding spots but also have some other features that make them ideal for dwarf puffers. Chili rasboras are very active fish and can amuse your pea puffs with their antics.

Glowlight Tetras (Hemigrammus erythrozonus)

Glowlight tetras are an exciting choice as a tank mate for pea puffers. They prefer slightly cooler water than most other fish, making them an excellent addition to a dwarf puffer’s tank. Plus, these fish are active and playful, which will keep your pea puffs happily.

Platies (Xiphophorus maculatus)

While not explicitly chosen as a tank mate for dwarf puffer fish, platies are an excellent option. They prefer similar to water and hiding spots to those of the pea puffers, as well as being moderately active fish. In addition, they make an excellent family member for other small pets in your home.

Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi)

Neon tetras are an excellent choice as a tank mate for pea puffers because they share many of the exact needs and preferences of dwarf puffer fish. Neon tetras prefer slightly cooler water than most other fish, making them an excellent addition to your dwarf puffer’s tank. Additionally, they are very active fish and make great playmates for your pea puffs.

Blood-Fin Tetras (Aphyocharax anisitsi)

Firstly, blood-fin tetras are not explicitly chosen as a tank mate for dwarf puffer fish. However, they make an excellent choice overall as a suitable pet for any small aquatic creature.

Secondly, like the neon tetras, blood-fin tetras prefer slightly cooler water than most other fish and have a lively personality that will keep your pea puff entertained.

Amano Shrimp (Caridina Multidentate)

Amano shrimp make an excellent tank mate for dwarf puffer fish due to their small size and general compatibility. Amano shrimps are peaceful fresh and saltwater inhabitants, so they will not harass or damage your dwarf puffer fish.

Additionally, these little critters consume plant life and algae, ensuring that your pea puff’s diet is well-rounded.

Ghost Shrimp

Ghost shrimp are an excellent choice for a tank mate for dwarf puffer fish. They are small and have a gentle temperament, making them perfect companions for any timid creature. Ghost shrimps also consume plant life, so they will help to keep your pea puff’s environment clean.

In addition, dwarf puffer fish typically do not require a lot of swimming space, so ghost shrimp are an ideal choice for smaller tanks.

Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)

Cherry shrimp make a great tank mate for dwarf puffer fish because they are peaceful and small. Like the ghost shrimp, cherry shrimps consume plant life, making them an ideal addition to your pea puff’s aquarium. In addition, cherry shrimps can be colorful and attractive additions to any tank.

Does Your Dwarf Puffer Need a Tank Mate?

Most dwarf puffer fish can be housed alone, but if you plan to keep one in a small aquarium, it is essential to find an appropriate tankmate. While some of the suggested tank mates for dwarf puffers are good choices on their own, others work best when paired with a dwarf puffer fish.

Additionally, dwarf puffers can be aggressive with other fish and may require a tank mate to keep them in check. Consult an experienced aquarium hobbyist to find the best tankmate for your dwarf puffer fish.

Can Dwarf Puffers Live Together in the Same Tank?

Some people say that pea puffers can live with dwarf puffers, although others caution against it. If you decide to keep the two fish in the same tank, provide plenty of hiding spots and monitor their water conditions carefully. Also, choose a compatible tank mate for your pea puffers.

Keeping Dwarf Puffers Together

Keeping no more than three pea puffers in a tank is best since they are very active fish and can quickly outgrow a smaller tank. A starting point would be to keep one pea puffer per gallon or less water. If you plan to add more fish later, increase the size of your tank gradually so that all the fish have enough room.

Selecting a Fish for Your Dwarf Puffer Tank

When selecting a fish for your pea puff tank, it is essential to consider the size and temperament of the pet. It is also vital to ensure that the selected fish will be compatible with your pea puff’s environment and diet.

Additionally, it is essential to consider the fish’s swimming space requirements and whether or not it will be a good fit for your particular tank. Therefore, it is essential to do your research before selecting a fish for your pea puff tank.