Can Gardner's Killifish and Royal Pleco (L190) Live Together?

Gardner's Killifish is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Royal Pleco (L190) is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Royal Pleco (L190) may occasionally assert dominance over Gardner's Killifish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Gardner's Killifish prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Royal Pleco (L190) occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Royal Pleco (L190) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Gardner's Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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 6.5 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.

To house Gardner's Killifish and Royal Pleco (L190) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 540 litres with a minimum length of 150 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, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Royal Pleco (L190) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Gardner's Killifish's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

Gardner's Killifish prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Royal Pleco (L190) needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.