Can Gardner's Killifish and Guppy Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Gardner's Killifish and Guppy 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 46 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Gardner's Killifish

Fundulopanchax gardneri

Guppy

Poecilia reticulata

🐠Family Group
Gardner's Killifish
Killifish
Guppy
Livebearers
Temperament
Gardner's Killifish
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Guppy
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
20–26°C
Guppy
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
6–7.5
Guppy
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
4–10
Guppy
8–30
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
Freshwater Only
Guppy
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
Low
Guppy
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 46 L
Gardner's Killifish
38 L
Guppy
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Gardner's Killifish
TopMiddle
Guppy
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Gardner's Killifish
Jumper (Lid Required)Fry PredatorShrimp EaterHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Guppy
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator

Behaviour & Temperament

Gardner's Killifish is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Guppy is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Gardner's Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Guppy.

Gardner's Killifish and Guppy 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 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 8–10 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 Guppy together, plan for an aquarium of at least 46 litres with a minimum length of 45 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.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Gardner's Killifish and Guppy live together?

Yes. Gardner's Killifish and Guppy 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 Guppy need?

A minimum of 46 litres (tank length at least 45 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 Guppy 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 Guppy aggressive?

Gardner's Killifish is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Guppy is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Gardner's Killifish and Guppy 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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