Can Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 38 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Clown Killifish

Epiplatys annulatus

Green Neon Tetra

Paracheirodon simulans

🐠Family Group
Clown Killifish
Killifish
Green Neon Tetra
Characins
Temperament
Clown Killifish
Peaceful (2/10)
Green Neon Tetra
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
23–27°C
Green Neon Tetra
24–29°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
5–7
Green Neon Tetra
4.5–6.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
1–8
Green Neon Tetra
1–8
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
Freshwater Only
Green Neon Tetra
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
Low
Green Neon Tetra
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 38 L
Clown Killifish
19 L
Green Neon Tetra
38 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Clown Killifish
Top
Green Neon Tetra
Middle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Clown Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry Predator
Green Neon Tetra
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra?

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.

Clown Killifish
Green Neon Tetra
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Clown Killifish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Green Neon Tetra is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Clown Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Green Neon Tetra.

In terms of spatial distribution, Clown Killifish prefers the Top (Surface) zone, whereas Green Neon Tetra occupies the Middle (Open Water) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

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 24°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 5 and 6.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 1–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra 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 - 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra.

Show 22 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra live together?

Yes. Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra 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 Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 27°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Clown Killifish or Green Neon Tetra aggressive?

Clown Killifish is peaceful (2/10) and Green Neon Tetra is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Clown Killifish and Green Neon Tetra need?

Both species overlap in the 5–6.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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