Can Glowlight Tetra and Golden Wonder Killifish Live Together?

🔴Not Recommended

Glowlight Tetra and Golden Wonder Killifish are not recommended as tank mates due to piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates.. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.


At a Glance

Glowlight Tetra

Hemigrammus erythrozonus

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

🐠Family Group
Glowlight Tetra
Characins
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Glowlight Tetra
Peaceful (1/10)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Glowlight Tetra
23–28°C
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Glowlight Tetra
5.5–7.5
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Glowlight Tetra
2–15
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Glowlight Tetra
Freshwater Only
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Glowlight Tetra
Moderate
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 90 L
Glowlight Tetra
40 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Glowlight Tetra
Middle
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
🏷️Behavior Tags
Glowlight Tetra
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Glowlight Tetra is a peaceful species (1/10), while Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Golden Wonder Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Glowlight Tetra.

In terms of spatial distribution, Glowlight Tetra prefers the Middle (Open Water) zone, whereas Golden Wonder Killifish occupies the Top (Surface) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

There is a critical concern: the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

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: Golden Wonder Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°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 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Glowlight Tetra 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.

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, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, 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.

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Diet & Feeding

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Golden Wonder Killifish is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Glowlight Tetra.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Glowlight Tetra and Golden Wonder Killifish live together?

No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.

What size tank do Glowlight Tetra 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 Glowlight Tetra and Golden Wonder Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Glowlight Tetra or Golden Wonder Killifish aggressive?

Glowlight Tetra is peaceful (1/10) and Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Glowlight Tetra 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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