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Can I keep platies, mollies, plecos, and neon tetras in a 20-gallon tank?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male

Can platties, Black mollies, pleco, and neon tetra all be kept together in a 20 gallon tank?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on August 10th, 2018

In general these fish can all be housed together safely. The one thing to keep in mind is the amount of space needed per fish to maintain a safe and healthy environment. Each 1in of fish needs 1 gallon of water. So in a 20 gallon tan you can have 20 inches of fish. The Pleco is the only one I have concerns with as some varieties can grow quite large. Check with your local pet shop as to what needs best suit this type of fish or what type of fish suit your tank best.

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