Can Gardner's Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Gardner's Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 90 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Gardner's Killifish

Fundulopanchax gardneri

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

🐟Family Group
Gardner's Killifish
Killifish
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Gardner's Killifish
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
20–26°C
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
6–7.5
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
4–10
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
Freshwater Only
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
Low
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 90 L
Gardner's Killifish
38 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Gardner's Killifish
TopMiddle
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
🏷️Behavior Tags
Gardner's Killifish
Jumper (Lid Required)Fry PredatorShrimp EaterHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Gardner's Killifish is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). This modest difference means Golden Wonder Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Gardner's Killifish.

Gardner's Killifish 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: 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.

Tank Setup

To house Gardner's Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 90 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.

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, Plants - lighly covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Gardner's Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 90 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Gardner's Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish need?

A minimum of 90 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 Gardner's Killifish and Golden Wonder Killifish 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 Golden Wonder Killifish aggressive?

Gardner's Killifish is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Gardner's Killifish 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.


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