Can Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) Live Together?

Possible with Caution

Keeping Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 40 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Dusky Millions Fish

Phalloceros caudimaculatus

Rachov's Killifish (Annual)

Nothobranchius rachovii

🐠Family Group
Dusky Millions Fish
Livebearers
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Killifish
Temperament
Dusky Millions Fish
Peaceful (2/10)
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Dusky Millions Fish
16–24°C
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
20–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Dusky Millions Fish
7–8
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Dusky Millions Fish
8–20
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
4–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Dusky Millions Fish
Brackish Tolerant
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Dusky Millions Fish
Low
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 40 L
Dusky Millions Fish
40 L
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Dusky Millions Fish
TopMiddle
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Dusky Millions Fish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerPlant DestroyerFin Nipper
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual)?

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.

Dusky Millions Fish
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Dusky Millions Fish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Rachov's Killifish (Annual) may occasionally assert dominance over Dusky Millions Fish.

Dusky Millions Fish 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.

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: Keep fin nippers in larger groups to distribute nipping behaviour among conspecifics rather than tank mates.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 20°C and 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 22.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 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 8–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 40 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.

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, Established Algae (Otocinclus), Soil / Nutrient Rich, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Dusky Millions Fish is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Rachov's Killifish (Annual)'s requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

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 Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual).

Show 21 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 40 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) need?

A minimum of 40 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 Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) together?

Keep the aquarium between 20°C and 24°C. A target of around 22.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Dusky Millions Fish or Rachov's Killifish (Annual) aggressive?

Dusky Millions Fish is peaceful (2/10) and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Dusky Millions Fish and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Will Dusky Millions Fish nip Rachov's Killifish (Annual)'s fins?

Dusky Millions Fish is a known fin nipper. If Rachov's Killifish (Annual) has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Dusky Millions Fish in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.


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