Can Chili Rasbora and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Chili Rasbora and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 23 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Chili Rasbora

Boraras brigittae

Rachov's Killifish (Annual)

Nothobranchius rachovii

🐠Family Group
Chili Rasbora
Cyprinids
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Killifish
Temperament
Chili Rasbora
Peaceful (0/10)
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Chili Rasbora
24–28°C
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
20–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Chili Rasbora
4–7
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Chili Rasbora
1–10
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
4–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Chili Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Chili Rasbora
Low
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 23 L
Chili Rasbora
19 L
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Chili Rasbora
MiddleTop
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Chili Rasbora
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)

Behaviour & Temperament

Chili Rasbora is a peaceful species (0/10), while Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Rachov's Killifish (Annual) may occasionally assert dominance over Chili Rasbora.

Chili Rasbora and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) 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: Rachov's Killifish (Annual) 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 24°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 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 4–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Chili Rasbora and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 23 litres with a minimum length of 30 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

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, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Soil / Nutrient Rich. 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.

Find the right tank equipment

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Chili Rasbora and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 23 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Chili Rasbora and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) need?

A minimum of 23 litres (tank length at least 30 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 Chili Rasbora and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 26°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Chili Rasbora or Rachov's Killifish (Annual) aggressive?

Chili Rasbora is peaceful (0/10) and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Chili Rasbora and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


Related Comparisons

Chili Rasbora & Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Chili Rasbora: PeacefulCelestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora): Peaceful

Chili Rasbora & Cherry Barb

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Chili Rasbora: PeacefulCherry Barb: Peaceful

Chili Rasbora & Harlequin Rasbora

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Chili Rasbora: PeacefulHarlequin Rasbora: Peaceful

Chili Rasbora & Gold Barb

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Chili Rasbora: PeacefulGold Barb: Peaceful

Chili Rasbora & White Cloud Mountain Minnow

·

🔴Not Recommended
Chili Rasbora: PeacefulWhite Cloud Mountain Minnow: Peaceful

Chili Rasbora & Amazon Leaf Fish

·

🔴Not Recommended
Chili Rasbora: PeacefulAmazon Leaf Fish: Peaceful

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) & Florida Flagfish

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Rachov's Killifish (Annual): PeacefulFlorida Flagfish: Peaceful

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) & Gardner's Killifish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Rachov's Killifish (Annual): PeacefulGardner's Killifish: Peaceful

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) & Clown Killifish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Rachov's Killifish (Annual): PeacefulClown Killifish: Peaceful

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) & Norman's Lampeye Killifish

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Rachov's Killifish (Annual): PeacefulNorman's Lampeye Killifish: Peaceful

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) & Bolivian Ram

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Rachov's Killifish (Annual): PeacefulBolivian Ram: Peaceful

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) & Japanese Ricefish (Medaka)

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Rachov's Killifish (Annual): PeacefulJapanese Ricefish (Medaka): Peaceful