Best Tank Mates for Dragon Fish: Ideal Combinations

Many aquarium enthusiasts opt to keep dragonfish with other species to enhance the visual appeal of their tanks. However, due to the dragonfish's naturally aggressive nature, fondness for preying on small fish and shrimp, and strong territorial instincts, they can easily harm other tankmates when kept in mixed groups. Not all fish are suitable for cohabitation with dragonfish, so it's crucial for keepers to be cautious when selecting compatible species. Below, we'll delve into the types of fish that are relatively wellsuited for mixed tanks with dragonfish.

Fish Suitable for Cohabitation with Dragonfish

1. Tigerfish: Known for their striking yellow bodies adorned with black stripes, resembling a tiger, these fish are named for their predatory and combative nature. Tigerfish inhabit the lower water levels, which makes them less likely to clash with dragonfish, which are upper water dwellers. Their aggressive demeanor also makes them less likely to fall victim to the dragonfish's appetite.

2. Flying Fish: Also known as flagfish or starfish, these fish have a sleek, flattened body with a variety of colors and distinctive vertical stripes. Their back fins are speckled with dark spots, adding to their ornamental value. As omnivores, they can help clean up leftover food and algae from the tank, making them a good match for dragonfish.

3. Manta Ray: Known as devilfish, these flatbodied, discshaped creatures have powerful pectoral fins and a whiplike tail with spiky protuberances for defense. Manta rays are bottomdwellers and are less likely to come into conflict with dragonfish. However, they are more challenging to keep due to their high water quality requirements, so careful monitoring is essential.

4. Crown Tetra: Also called the eye spot cichlid, these fish are characterized by their large size, vibrant colors, and bold black spots with golden outlines, reminiscent of a peacock's eyes. Their robust nature and aggressive temperament make them resilient to the dragonfish's bites. Crown tetras are also bottomdwellers and are quick to react, with minimal water quality demands.

5. Blackjack Tetra: With a diamondshaped body and a prominent triangular black spot on either side, resembling a playing card's ace, these fish are known as Blackjack Tetras. They prefer the middle water levels and are generally nonintrusive to upper water species. However, it's important to avoid mixing young or small Blackjack Tetras with dragonfish, as they can be easily preyed upon.

In summary, not all fish are compatible with dragonfish, and the size of the tankmates must be carefully considered to prevent them from becoming prey. By choosing the right companions, you can create a harmonious and visually stunning aquarium environment for your dragonfish.