Can Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated April 28, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 110 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Glass Catfish

Kryptopterus vitreolus

Least Killifish (Heterandria)

Heterandria formosa

🐠Family Group
Glass Catfish
Catfish
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Livebearers
Temperament
Glass Catfish
Peaceful (1/10)
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
24–28°C
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
18–27°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
6–7
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
7–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
1–10
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
Freshwater Only
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
Moderate
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 110 L
Glass Catfish
110 L
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Glass Catfish
Middle
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
TopMiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Glass Catfish
Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry Predator
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria)?

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.

Glass Catfish
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) are peaceful species with an aggression score of 1/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) both frequent the 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.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 and 7. 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 Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 90 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. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

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

Why This Pairing Needs Extra Planning in Practice

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria).

Show 10 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 110 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) need?

A minimum of 110 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 Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 27°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Glass Catfish or Least Killifish (Heterandria) aggressive?

Glass Catfish is peaceful (1/10) and Least Killifish (Heterandria) is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Glass Catfish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
April 28, 2026
Last updated
April 28, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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