Can Assassin Snail and Wrestling Halfbeak Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Assassin Snail and Wrestling Halfbeak are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 66 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Assassin Snail

Clea helena

Wrestling Halfbeak

Dermogenys pusilla

🐠Family Group
Assassin Snail
Invertebrates
Wrestling Halfbeak
Livebearers
Temperament
Assassin Snail
Peaceful (2/10)
Wrestling Halfbeak
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
22–28°C
Wrestling Halfbeak
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
7–8
Wrestling Halfbeak
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
8–15
Wrestling Halfbeak
10–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
Freshwater Only
Wrestling Halfbeak
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
Low
Wrestling Halfbeak
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 66 L
Assassin Snail
10 L
Wrestling Halfbeak
55 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Assassin Snail
Bottom
Wrestling Halfbeak
Top
🏷️Behavior Tags
Assassin Snail
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Snail EaterDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Wrestling Halfbeak
Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry PredatorAggressive to same species/look-alikes

Behaviour & Temperament

Assassin Snail is a peaceful species (2/10), while Wrestling Halfbeak is generally mild-mannered (4/10). This modest difference means Wrestling Halfbeak may occasionally assert dominance over Assassin Snail.

In terms of spatial distribution, Assassin Snail prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Wrestling Halfbeak 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.

Worth noting: Wrestling Halfbeak 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 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Assassin Snail and Wrestling Halfbeak together, plan for an aquarium of at least 66 litres with a minimum length of 60 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Plants - Floating. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Assassin Snail and Wrestling Halfbeak live together?

Yes. Assassin Snail and Wrestling Halfbeak are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Assassin Snail and Wrestling Halfbeak need?

A minimum of 66 litres (tank length at least 60 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 Assassin Snail and Wrestling Halfbeak together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Assassin Snail or Wrestling Halfbeak aggressive?

Assassin Snail is peaceful (2/10) and Wrestling Halfbeak is generally mild-mannered (4/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Assassin Snail and Wrestling Halfbeak need?

Both species overlap in the 7–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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