Schooling fish are interesting to keep, because they swim together as a group. Especially when they swim in a tight school, they appear as if the group of fish is moving as one animal. In the wild, schooling behavior helps the fish travel and find food more safely. These schools can reach several hundred in size, and this can be quite an astonishing sight to see.
While some fish will instinctively swim in schools, this is not true for all fish. Therefore, if you wish to observe the schooling behavior in your fish tank, it’s important to choose the right species.
Here are the best schooling fish to consider for your freshwater aquarium:
Amazon Basin, Rio-Vaupes River (Colombia), Rio Negro River (Brazil)
Size
Up to 2 inches (5 cm) when fully grown
Tank Size
Suitable for small to medium-sized aquariums
Temperature
75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C)
Water pH
6.0 – 7.5
Ease of Care
Moderate (requires attention to water conditions and diet)
Schooling Behavior
Rummynose Tetras are known to be one of the tightest schooling fish. They prefer to swim in groups of at least six, as schooling helps them feel secure and reduces stress. This strong schooling instinct is not just a defensive mechanism against predators, but also a captivating natural spectacle for aquarium enthusiasts. In a well-planted aquarium with ample space, Rummynose Tetras will demonstrate tight, synchronized swimming patterns, moving as a single entity with remarkable precision.
Cardinal Tetras thrive in groups, displaying more vibrant colors and engaging behaviors when kept with others of their kind. Schooling helps reduce stress, making them healthier and more active. It’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least six, but larger groups will provide a more natural and impressive display.
South America (Paraguay River Basin, Guaporé River)
Size
1 to 2.5 inches (2.5 to 6.4 cm)
Tank Size
Minimum 10 gallons (37.9 liters)
Temperature
72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)
Water pH
6.0 to 7.5
Ease of Care
Beginner-friendly
Schooling Behavior
As a schooling species, Blackskirt Tetras exhibit a strong social structure and prefer to live in groups of six or more. This behavior is not only a defense mechanism against predators but also a way for them to feel secure and reduce stress in the aquarium environment. In the wild, these fish navigate through the waters of South America in cohesive groups, showcasing synchronized swimming patterns that are both a survival strategy and a natural instinct. The schooling behavior of Blackskirt Tetras enhances their vibrant presence in the aquarium, making them a favorite among aquarists who seek to replicate the dynamic and interactive aquatic communities found in nature. While they can be fin-nippers, keeping them in groups can help reduce such fin-nipping behavior.
Central Africa, specifically in the Congo River basin
Size
Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
Tank Size
Minimum of 20 gallons (75 liters)
Temperature
73°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C)
Water pH
6.0 to 7.5
Ease of Care
Moderate
Schooling Behavior
As a schooling fish, Congo Tetras thrive in groups and exhibit a highly social behavior, often swimming in coordinated movements that enhance their iridescent scales’ shimmering effect. This gregarious nature not only reduces stress among individuals but also encourages a more natural and dynamic aquarium environment. In the wild, these schooling behaviors provide safety in numbers from predators and help in locating food. For aquarium keeping, it’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least six or more to ensure their well-being and to display their natural behavior more vividly, as they can become shy or stressed if kept in smaller numbers or alone.
Silvertip Tetras are small, peaceful freshwater fish from South America, recognized for their silver bodies with black accents. They exhibit typical schooling behavior and should ideally be kept in groups of at least six individuals to feel secure and display natural behaviors fully. Maintaining them in proper-sized schools enhances their well-being and aesthetic appeal in the aquarium.
In the wild and in aquariums, Ember Tetras exhibit a strong preference for moving and staying together in groups, a trait that enhances their survival by providing safety in numbers against predators and facilitating more efficient foraging. This schooling behavior also creates a captivating visual in aquariums, as their bright orange-red bodies move in harmony against the backdrop of aquatic plants and decorations. They are peaceful fish, making them excellent community tank inhabitants, where they prefer densely planted setups that mimic their natural environment. Their social nature means they thrive best in groups of at least six to ten individuals, which allows them to exhibit their natural behaviors and ensures a healthier, less stressed fish population.
Neon Tetras are vibrant freshwater fish known for their schooling behavior, which mimics their natural defense mechanism in the Amazon Basin. They thrive in groups of at least six individuals, though larger schools of 10 or more are recommended to ensure their well-being in aquarium settings. Maintaining a sufficient school size is crucial for reducing stress and encouraging natural behaviors in Neon Tetras.
Black Neon Tetras are peaceful freshwater aquarium fish known for their striking appearance. They exhibit strong schooling behavior, thriving in groups of at least six individuals to promote natural behavior and vibrant colors. Larger groups are recommended to minimize stress and encourage active schooling behavior, enhancing their display in the aquarium.
As a schooling species, Buenos Aires Tetras exhibit a strong social structure and are most comfortable and visually striking when kept in groups of six or more. This gregarious nature not only reduces stress among individuals but also enhances their collective defense against predators, a behavior that is fascinating to observe in home aquariums. Their active swimming and coordinated movements within the water column bring a lively atmosphere to the tank. However, their somewhat nippy behavior towards fish with long fins and their active temperament should be considered when selecting tank mates. The social interactions and schooling dynamics of Buenos Aires Tetras highlight the importance of considering social behaviors in aquarium fish care and the aesthetic benefits of keeping schooling fish in groups.
Red Eye Tetras are a popular choice among freshwater aquarium enthusiasts due to their vibrant appearance and dynamic schooling behavior. As a schooling fish, Red Eye Tetras thrive in groups and exhibit a fascinating, synchronized swimming pattern that is not only a defense mechanism against predators but also a natural instinct that promotes social interaction within the species. Their behavior is most pronounced in well-structured aquariums with ample space, where they can be seen darting across the water in harmonious unison. It’s recommended to keep them in a group of six or more. This gregarious nature not only enhances their own sense of security but also adds a visually striking element to the aquarium, making them a favorite for adding movement and color to community tanks. Their schooling behavior is a testament to their social disposition, underscoring the importance of group living for their overall well-being and satisfaction in a captive environment.
Columbian Tetras are a vibrant and active species of freshwater fish that exhibit a strong schooling behavior, a characteristic shared among many tetras. This behavior is not only a defensive mechanism against predators but also a social structure for foraging and navigating their environment. In the wild, Columbian Tetras are found in schools consisting of dozens to hundreds of individuals, which helps to reduce individual stress levels and promotes a more natural and healthy behavior in aquarium settings. As a result, aquarium enthusiasts are encouraged to keep them in groups of at least six to ensure their well-being and to observe their dynamic interactions and coordinated movements, which are a hallmark of their schooling nature. This gregarious behavior, combined with their striking blue and red coloration, makes them a popular choice for community aquariums, where they add both visual appeal and a fascinating glimpse into the complex social behaviors of fish.
Diamond Tetras are a popular choice among freshwater aquarium enthusiasts for their shimmering, diamond-like scales and peaceful demeanor. As a schooling species, Diamond Tetras exhibit a strong social structure, thriving in groups of six or more. This behavior is not just a preference but a necessity for their well-being, as it helps reduce stress, enhances their vibrant colors, and stimulates natural behaviors. In a well-planted aquarium that mimics their native Venezuelan habitats, these fish display fascinating social interactions and a cohesive swimming pattern that is both elegant and captivating. Their schooling nature makes them an excellent addition to community tanks, where they contribute to a dynamic and harmonious aquatic environment.
Glowlight Tetras are peaceful schooling fish, known for their distinctive orange-red stripe. They thrive in groups of six or more, which reduces stress and enhances their coloration. Their preference for schooling results in synchronized swimming and better social interaction, making them suitable for community aquariums with other small, peaceful species.
South America, specifically in Brazil’s Amazon Basin
Size
Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Tank Size
Minimum of 20 gallons (75 liters)
Temperature
72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)
Water pH
5.5 to 7.5
Ease of Care
Easy
Schooling Behavior
Lemon Tetras are a popular freshwater aquarium fish known for their schooling behavior. They thrive in groups of six or more, displaying enhanced coloration and reduced stress when in a school. This behavior also encourages active and coordinated swimming patterns, making them a peaceful addition to community aquariums. Their need for social interaction highlights the importance of group housing for their well-being.
Tiger Barbs are active, schooling freshwater fish that thrive in groups as a defense mechanism against predators and to reduce stress. Their schooling behavior is essential for their well-being, providing security and a social hierarchy. While generally playful, they can exhibit aggression, especially in smaller groups or towards long-finned species. Keeping them in larger schools of six or more helps mitigate this aggression, promoting a harmonious aquarium environment.
Pygmy Corydoras, native to South America, are social catfish that exhibit schooling behavior in aquariums. To ensure their well-being and activity, it’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least six individuals, as they feel safer and more comfortable when surrounded by their own kind, displaying natural behaviors and engaging in social interactions.
Otocinclus Catfish are peaceful, herbivorous freshwater fish from South America, known for their algae-eating habits and small size. In both natural habitats and aquariums, they exhibit schooling behavior. To ensure their well-being and natural behavior, it’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least six individuals. This helps them feel secure and reduces stress, allowing enthusiasts to observe their natural behaviors more effectively.
Clown Loaches are sociable freshwater fish known for their vibrant colors and playful behavior, thriving best in groups. Keeping them in schools of at least six individuals, though larger groups are preferable, ensures their well-being and reduces stress. Their schooling behavior fosters security and enables them to engage in intricate interactions, creating a captivating display for aquarium enthusiasts.
Streams and tributaries of the New Guinea rainforest
Size
Up to 3 inches (8 cm)
Tank Size
Minimum 20-gallon long or 29-gallon tank
Temperature
74–80°F (23–27°C)
Water pH
Prefer harder, alkaline water
Ease of Care
Beginner-friendly
Schooling Behavior
Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish are vibrant and active schooling fish commonly found in community aquariums. They thrive when kept in groups of at least six individuals, displaying natural behaviors such as shoaling and synchronized swimming. Maintaining a sufficient school size is essential for their well-being, reducing stress and promoting their overall health in captivity.
Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra, and Borneo)
Size
Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Tank Size
Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
Temperature
73°F – 79°F (23°C – 26°C)
Water pH
6.0 – 7.5
Ease of Care
Easy
Schooling Behavior
Harlequin Rasboras are known for their vibrant schooling behavior, which serves as both a defense mechanism and a social preference. In aquariums, they form tight-knit schools, swimming in unison and enhancing their sense of security. They do well when kept in groups of six or more, making them suitable for community tanks.
Emerald Eye Rasboras thrive in groups and display their best behaviors when kept in schools of at least six individuals. They exhibit a strong preference for social interaction, forming tight-knit groups that gracefully dart around the aquarium, showcasing their vibrant coloration. Maintaining them in sufficient numbers not only enhances their natural behaviors but also reduces stress levels, promoting their overall health and well-being in captivity.
Beckford Pencilfish are small, peaceful freshwater fish known for their striking coloration and elongated body shape. In aquariums, they exhibit strong schooling behavior, thriving best in groups of at least six individuals to promote social interaction and reduce stress levels. Maintaining a larger school size not only enhances their well-being but also encourages natural behaviors, making them more active and vibrant within the aquarium environment.
Approximately 2 to 2.5 inches long (capable of reaching up to 3 inches)
Tank Size
Suitable for nano tanks and larger aquariums
Temperature
64°F to 75°F (17.8°C to 23.9°C)
Water pH
6.5 to 7.5
Ease of Care
Low-maintenance and adaptable
Schooling Behavior
Zebra Danios are gregarious schooling fish known for their vibrant swimming patterns and social behavior. It’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least 5 to 6 to mimic their natural tendency to form schools, which is essential for their well-being and stress reduction. Larger schools are preferable to fully display their dynamic interactions and ensure a healthy, stress-free environment in aquariums.
White Cloud Mountain Minnows are renowned for their peaceful nature and striking appearance. They exhibit strong schooling behavior, thriving best in groups of at least six individuals, though larger schools of 10 or more are preferable. This social dynamic not only reduces stress but also enhances their activity level and creates a captivating display in aquarium settings.
With decades of collective fishkeeping experience, we are happy to share the fish care tips that we've picked up along the way. Our goal at Fish Laboratory is to keep publishing accurate content to help fishkeepers keep their fish and aquarium healthy. Check us out on YouTube, Instagram, and learn more about us!
