Can Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Emerald Dwarf Danio 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 38 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Emerald Dwarf Danio

Danio erythromicron

Least Killifish (Heterandria)

Heterandria formosa

🐠Family Group
Emerald Dwarf Danio
Cyprinids
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Livebearers
Temperament
Emerald Dwarf Danio
Peaceful (1/10)
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Emerald Dwarf Danio
20–24°C
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
18–27°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Emerald Dwarf Danio
7–8
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
7–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Emerald Dwarf Danio
8–20
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Emerald Dwarf Danio
Freshwater Only
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Emerald Dwarf Danio
Low
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 38 L
Emerald Dwarf Danio
38 L
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Emerald Dwarf Danio
MiddleBottom
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
TopMiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Emerald Dwarf Danio
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Jumper (Lid Required)
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria)?

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.

Emerald Dwarf Danio
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) are peaceful species with an aggression score of 1/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and Bottom (Substrate) 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: Emerald Dwarf Danio is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 8–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 - Densely covered, Plants - Floating. 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.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria).

Show 22 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) live together?

Yes. Emerald Dwarf Danio 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 Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Emerald Dwarf Danio or Least Killifish (Heterandria) aggressive?

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

What pH do Emerald Dwarf Danio and Least Killifish (Heterandria) need?

Both species overlap in the 7–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 4, 2026
Last updated
May 4, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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