Can Golden Oto and Largereye Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 6, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Golden Oto 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

Golden Oto

Macrotocinclus affinis

Largereye Lampeye Killifish

Micropanchax macrophthalmus

🐠Family Group
Golden Oto
Catfish
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Golden Oto
Peaceful (0/10)
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Golden Oto
21–27°C
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Golden Oto
6–7.5
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Golden Oto
4–15
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Golden Oto
Freshwater Only
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Golden Oto
Moderate
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 40 L
Golden Oto
38 L
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
40 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Golden Oto
MiddleBottom
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Golden Oto
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Jumper (Lid Required)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Golden Oto 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.

Golden Oto
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Golden Oto is a peaceful species (0/10), while Largereye Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Largereye Lampeye Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Golden Oto.

Golden Oto and Largereye Lampeye Killifish 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.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

Worth noting: Largereye Lampeye 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 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°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 4–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Golden Oto 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: Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - Densely covered, Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), 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. Golden Oto and Largereye Lampeye Killifish 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 Golden Oto and Largereye Lampeye Killifish.

Show 21 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Golden Oto 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 Golden Oto 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 Golden Oto and Largereye Lampeye Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 27°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Golden Oto or Largereye Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

Golden Oto is peaceful (0/10) and Largereye Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Golden Oto 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.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

Last reviewed
May 6, 2026
Last updated
May 6, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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