Can Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated April 30, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels. Provide a spacious tank of at least 75 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Flyspeck Hardyhead

Craterocephalus stercusmuscarum

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

🐠Family Group
Flyspeck Hardyhead
Other
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Flyspeck Hardyhead
Peaceful (1/10)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Flyspeck Hardyhead
22–28°C
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Flyspeck Hardyhead
6–8
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Flyspeck Hardyhead
5–15
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Flyspeck Hardyhead
Freshwater Only
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Flyspeck Hardyhead
Moderate
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 75 L
Flyspeck Hardyhead
75 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Flyspeck Hardyhead
TopMiddle
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
🏷️Behavior Tags
Flyspeck Hardyhead
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish?

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.

Flyspeck Hardyhead
Golden Wonder Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Flyspeck Hardyhead is a peaceful species (1/10), while Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Golden Wonder Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Flyspeck Hardyhead.

Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish both frequent the Top (Surface) 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: Flyspeck Hardyhead 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 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 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 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 75 litres with a minimum length of 60 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, Established Algae (Otocinclus), 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.

Why This Pairing Needs Extra Planning in Practice

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish.

Show 17 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 75 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish need?

A minimum of 75 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 Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish 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 Flyspeck Hardyhead or Golden Wonder Killifish aggressive?

Flyspeck Hardyhead is peaceful (1/10) and Golden Wonder Killifish 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 Flyspeck Hardyhead and Golden Wonder Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 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
April 30, 2026
Last updated
April 30, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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