Can Endler's Livebearer and Least Killifish (Heterandria) Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Endler's Livebearer and Least Killifish (Heterandria) together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 23 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Endler's Livebearer

Poecilia wingei

Least Killifish (Heterandria)

Heterandria formosa

🐟Family Group
Endler's Livebearer
Livebearers
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Livebearers
Temperament
Endler's Livebearer
Peaceful (1/10)
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
22–28°C
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
18–27°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
7–8.5
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
7–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
10–25
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
Freshwater Only
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
Moderate
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 23 L
Endler's Livebearer
19 L
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Endler's Livebearer
TopMiddle
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
TopMiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Endler's Livebearer
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Endler's Livebearer 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.

Endler's Livebearer and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

Worth noting: Endler's Livebearer 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 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°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 10–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Endler's Livebearer and Least Killifish (Heterandria) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 23 litres with a minimum length of 30 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: Plants - Densely covered, 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Endler's Livebearer and Least Killifish (Heterandria) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 23 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Endler's Livebearer and Least Killifish (Heterandria) need?

A minimum of 23 litres (tank length at least 30 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 27°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Endler's Livebearer or Least Killifish (Heterandria) aggressive?

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

What pH do Endler's Livebearer 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.


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