Can Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

Possible with Caution

Keeping Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 38 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)

Danio margaritatus

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

🐠Family Group
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Cyprinids
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Peaceful (2/10)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
20–26°C
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
6.5–7.5
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
5–15
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Freshwater Only
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Low
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 38 L
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
38 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
MiddleBottom
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye 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)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is a peaceful species (2/10), while Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) may occasionally assert dominance over Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye 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.

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

Worth noting: Norman's Lampeye 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 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°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 Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye 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.

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: Plants - Densely covered, 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.

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. Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Show 22 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 38 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye 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 Norman's Lampeye Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 26°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) or Norman's Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) 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 Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) and Norman's Lampeye 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.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

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