Can Clown Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Clown Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 23 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Clown Killifish

Epiplatys annulatus

Least Killifish (Heterandria)

Heterandria formosa

🐠Family Group
Clown Killifish
Killifish
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Livebearers
Temperament
Clown Killifish
Peaceful (2/10)
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
23–27°C
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
18–27°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
5–7
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
7–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
1–8
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
Freshwater Only
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Clown Killifish
Low
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 23 L
Clown Killifish
19 L
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Clown Killifish
Top
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
TopMiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Clown Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry Predator
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)

Behaviour & Temperament

Clown Killifish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Least Killifish (Heterandria) is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Clown Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Least Killifish (Heterandria).

Clown Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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.

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 7 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Clown Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) live together?

Yes. Clown Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Clown Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) aggressive?

Clown Killifish is peaceful (2/10) and Least Killifish (Heterandria) is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Clown Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) need?

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


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