Can Endler's Livebearer and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) Live Together?

🔴Not Recommended

Endler's Livebearer and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) are not recommended as tank mates due to piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates.. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.


At a Glance

Endler's Livebearer

Poecilia wingei

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)

Datnioides microlepis

🐠Family Group
Endler's Livebearer
Livebearers
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Oddballs
Temperament
Endler's Livebearer
Peaceful (1/10)
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
22–28°C
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
7–8.5
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
10–25
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
Freshwater Only
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
Moderate
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 816 L
Endler's Livebearer
19 L
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
680 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Endler's Livebearer
TopMiddle
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Endler's Livebearer
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorAggressive to same species/look-alikesShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)

Behaviour & Temperament

Endler's Livebearer is a peaceful species (1/10), while Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) may occasionally assert dominance over Endler's Livebearer.

Endler's Livebearer and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) 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.

There is a critical concern: the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

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 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°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 10–15 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 Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 816 litres with a minimum length of 180 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, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). 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.

Diet & Feeding

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Endler's Livebearer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Endler's Livebearer and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) live together?

No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.

What size tank do Endler's Livebearer and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) need?

A minimum of 816 litres (tank length at least 180 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 Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Endler's Livebearer or Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) aggressive?

Endler's Livebearer is peaceful (1/10) and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) 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 Endler's Livebearer and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) 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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