Can Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

Possible with Caution

Keeping Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye Killifish together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 40 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

Largereye Lampeye Killifish

Micropanchax macrophthalmus

🐟Family Group
Gardner's Killifish
Killifish
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Gardner's Killifish
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
20–26°C
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
6–7.5
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
4–10
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
Freshwater Only
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Gardner's Killifish
Low
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 40 L
Gardner's Killifish
38 L
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
40 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Gardner's Killifish
TopMiddle
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Gardner's Killifish
Jumper (Lid Required)Fry PredatorShrimp EaterHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Jumper (Lid Required)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye 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.

Gardner's Killifish
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

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

Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye Killifish 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. Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

Worth noting: Gardner's Killifish 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 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 4–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 40 litres with a minimum length of 45 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, 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye Killifish.

Show 21 more tank sizes

Diet & Feeding

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Gardner's Killifish is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Largereye Lampeye Killifish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye Killifish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 40 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye Killifish need?

A minimum of 40 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 Largereye Lampeye 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 Largereye Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

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

What pH do Gardner's Killifish and Largereye Lampeye 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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