Can Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 6, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail 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 38 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)

Danio margaritatus

Lyretail Killifish

Aphyosemion australe

🐠Family Group
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Cyprinids
Lyretail Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Peaceful (2/10)
Lyretail Killifish
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
20–26°C
Lyretail Killifish
21–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
6.5–7.5
Lyretail Killifish
5.5–7
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
5–15
Lyretail Killifish
1–10
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Freshwater Only
Lyretail Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Low
Lyretail Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 38 L
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
38 L
Lyretail Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
MiddleBottom
Lyretail Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Lyretail Killifish
Jumper (Lid Required)Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Fry PredatorShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail 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.

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Lyretail Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is a peaceful species (2/10), while Lyretail Killifish is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Lyretail Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora).

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish both frequent the 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: Lyretail Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 21°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 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 5–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 38 litres with a minimum length of 45 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

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 - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. 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.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish.

Show 22 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish live together?

Yes. Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish need?

A minimum of 38 litres (tank length at least 45 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 Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 21°C and 26°C. A target of around 23.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) or Lyretail Killifish aggressive?

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is peaceful (2/10) and Lyretail Killifish is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Lyretail Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7 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 6, 2026
Last updated
May 6, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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