Can Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Golden Wonder Killifish Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Golden Wonder Killifish together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels. Provide a spacious tank of at least 240 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)

Misgurnus anguillicaudatus

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

🐠Family Group
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Loaches
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Peaceful (2/10)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
10–24°C
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
6.5–8
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
5–15
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Freshwater Only
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Moderate
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 240 L
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
200 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Bottom
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
🏷️Behavior Tags
Dojo Loach (Weather Loach)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerSnail EaterPlant Destroyer
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) 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 Dojo Loach (Weather Loach).

In terms of spatial distribution, Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Golden Wonder Killifish occupies the Top (Surface) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) 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 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.0°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. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Golden Wonder Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 240 litres with a minimum length of 120 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: Sand (Sifters), Plants - Floating. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) 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 Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Golden Wonder Killifish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 240 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Golden Wonder Killifish need?

A minimum of 240 litres (tank length at least 120 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 Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Golden Wonder Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 24°C. A target of around 23.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) or Golden Wonder Killifish aggressive?

Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) 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 Dojo Loach (Weather Loach) and Golden Wonder 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.


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