Can Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora 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 72 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Endler's Livebearer

Poecilia wingei

Harlequin Rasbora

Trigonostigma heteromorpha

🐠Family Group
Endler's Livebearer
Livebearers
Harlequin Rasbora
Cyprinids
Temperament
Endler's Livebearer
Peaceful (1/10)
Harlequin Rasbora
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
22–28°C
Harlequin Rasbora
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
7–8.5
Harlequin Rasbora
5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
10–25
Harlequin Rasbora
2–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
Freshwater Only
Harlequin Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
Moderate
Harlequin Rasbora
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 72 L
Endler's Livebearer
19 L
Harlequin Rasbora
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Endler's Livebearer
TopMiddle
Harlequin Rasbora
MiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Endler's Livebearer
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Harlequin Rasbora
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora 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.

Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora both frequent the Top (Surface) and 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: Endler's Livebearer is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora together, plan for an aquarium of at least 72 litres with a minimum length of 60 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 - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora live together?

Yes. Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora need?

A minimum of 72 litres (tank length at least 60 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 Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Endler's Livebearer or Harlequin Rasbora aggressive?

Endler's Livebearer is peaceful (1/10) and Harlequin Rasbora is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Endler's Livebearer and Harlequin Rasbora 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.


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