Can Clown Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish Live Together?

🔴Not Recommended

Clown Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish are not recommended as tank mates due to piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates.. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.


At a Glance

Clown Killifish

Epiplatys annulatus

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

🐟Family Group
Clown Killifish
Killifish
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Clown Killifish
Peaceful (2/10)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
23–27°C
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
5–7
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
1–8
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
Freshwater Only
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
Low
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 90 L
Clown Killifish
19 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Clown Killifish
Top
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
🏷️Behavior Tags
Clown Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry Predator
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Clown Killifish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Golden Wonder Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Clown Killifish.

Clown Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish both frequent the Top (Surface) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

There is a critical concern: the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

Worth noting: Clown Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 27°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 5–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Clown Killifish and Golden Wonder 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 - Floating, Plants - Densely covered, 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.

Find the right tank equipment

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

Diet & Feeding

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Golden Wonder Killifish is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Clown Killifish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Clown Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish live together?

No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.

What size tank do Clown Killifish and Golden Wonder 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 Clown Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 27°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Clown Killifish or Golden Wonder Killifish aggressive?

Clown Killifish is peaceful (2/10) and Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Clown Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish need?

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


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