Can Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 90 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Celebes Rainbowfish

Marosatherina ladigesi

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

🐠Family Group
Celebes Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Celebes Rainbowfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
22–28°C
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
7–8.5
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
10–25
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
Brackish Tolerant
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Celebes Rainbowfish
Moderate
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 90 L
Celebes Rainbowfish
75 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Celebes Rainbowfish
TopMiddle
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Celebes Rainbowfish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator

Behaviour & Temperament

Celebes Rainbowfish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Celebes Rainbowfish may occasionally assert dominance over Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish both frequent the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Worth noting: Celebes Rainbowfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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 7 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 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 90 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: Plants - lighly covered, Plants - Densely covered, 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.

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish live together?

Yes. Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

A minimum of 90 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 Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye 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 Celebes Rainbowfish or Norman's Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

Celebes Rainbowfish is peaceful (2/10) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Celebes Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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