Can Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio 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 132 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Gardner's Killifish

Fundulopanchax gardneri

Giant Danio

Devario aequipinnatus

🐠Family Group
Gardner's Killifish
Killifish
Giant Danio
Cyprinids
Temperament
Gardner's Killifish
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Giant Danio
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
20–26°C
Giant Danio
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
6–7.5
Giant Danio
6–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
4–10
Giant Danio
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
Freshwater Only
Giant Danio
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✗ No overlap
Gardner's Killifish
Low
Giant Danio
High
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 132 L
Gardner's Killifish
38 L
Giant Danio
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Gardner's Killifish
TopMiddle
Giant Danio
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Gardner's Killifish
Jumper (Lid Required)Fry PredatorShrimp EaterHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Giant Danio
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)

Behaviour & Temperament

Gardner's Killifish is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Giant Danio is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Gardner's Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Giant Danio.

Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio 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: Gardner's Killifish 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 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°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 5–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 90 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, Plants - lighly covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Gardner's Killifish prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Giant Danio needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio live together?

Yes. Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio need?

A minimum of 132 litres (tank length at least 90 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 Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 26°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Gardner's Killifish or Giant Danio aggressive?

Gardner's Killifish is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Giant Danio is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Gardner's Killifish and Giant Danio 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.


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