Can Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 1, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 2500 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Antennae Stingray

Plesiotrygon iwamae

Gardner's Killifish

Fundulopanchax gardneri

🐠Family Group
Antennae Stingray
Oddballs
Gardner's Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Antennae Stingray
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Gardner's Killifish
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
24–28°C
Gardner's Killifish
20–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
6–7
Gardner's Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
1–10
Gardner's Killifish
4–10
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
Freshwater Only
Gardner's Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
Moderate
Gardner's Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 2500 L
Antennae Stingray
2500 L
Gardner's Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Antennae Stingray
Bottom
Gardner's Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Antennae Stingray
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Gardner's Killifish
Jumper (Lid Required)Fry PredatorShrimp EaterHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Antennae Stingray
Gardner's Killifish
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Behaviour & Temperament

Antennae Stingray is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Gardner's Killifish is generally mild-mannered (4/10). This modest difference means Antennae Stingray may occasionally assert dominance over Gardner's Killifish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Antennae Stingray prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Gardner's Killifish occupies the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Gardner's Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 4–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 2500 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Plants - lighly covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Why This Pairing Needs Extra Planning in Practice

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 2500 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish need?

A minimum of 2500 litres (tank length at least 240 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 26°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Antennae Stingray or Gardner's Killifish aggressive?

Antennae Stingray is moderately assertive (5/10) and Gardner's Killifish is generally mild-mannered (4/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Antennae Stingray and Gardner's Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 1, 2026
Last updated
May 1, 2026
Issues or corrections?
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