Can Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder Killifish Live Together?

Possible with Caution

Keeping Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder Killifish together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels and potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 114 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Arrowhead Puffer

Pao suvattii

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

🐠Family Group
Arrowhead Puffer
Puffers
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Arrowhead Puffer
Highly Aggressive (10/10)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Arrowhead Puffer
22–28°C
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Arrowhead Puffer
6.5–7.5
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Arrowhead Puffer
5–15
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Arrowhead Puffer
Freshwater Only
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Arrowhead Puffer
Moderate
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 114 L
Arrowhead Puffer
114 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Arrowhead Puffer
Bottom
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
🏷️Behavior Tags
Arrowhead Puffer
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Snail EaterShrimp EaterGenerally AggressiveAggressive to same species/look-alikesDigger (Disturbs Substrate)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder 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.

Arrowhead Puffer
Golden Wonder Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Arrowhead Puffer is a highly aggressive species (10/10), while Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Arrowhead Puffer may occasionally assert dominance over Golden Wonder Killifish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Arrowhead Puffer prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Golden Wonder Killifish occupies the Top (Surface) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

Worth noting: Golden Wonder Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 114 litres with a minimum length of 75 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), Plants - Floating. 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder Killifish.

Show 12 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder Killifish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 114 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder Killifish need?

A minimum of 114 litres (tank length at least 75 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 Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Arrowhead Puffer or Golden Wonder Killifish aggressive?

Arrowhead Puffer is highly aggressive (10/10) and Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Arrowhead Puffer and Golden Wonder Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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