Can Golden Wonder Killifish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Golden Wonder Killifish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 816 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)

Datnioides microlepis

🐠Family Group
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Oddballs
Temperament
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 816 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
680 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorAggressive to same species/look-alikesShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Golden Wonder Killifish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) are moderately assertive species with an aggression score of 6/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

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

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

Worth noting: Golden Wonder 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 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°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 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Golden Wonder Killifish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 816 litres with a minimum length of 180 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

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 - Floating, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely 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.

Find the right tank equipment

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Golden Wonder Killifish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 816 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Golden Wonder Killifish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) need?

A minimum of 816 litres (tank length at least 180 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 Wonder Killifish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Golden Wonder Killifish or Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) aggressive?

Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10) and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is moderately assertive (6/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Golden Wonder Killifish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


Related Comparisons

Golden Wonder Killifish & Florida Flagfish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Golden Wonder Killifish: PeacefulFlorida Flagfish: Peaceful

Golden Wonder Killifish & Gardner's Killifish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Golden Wonder Killifish: PeacefulGardner's Killifish: Peaceful

Golden Wonder Killifish & Japanese Ricefish (Medaka)

·

🔴Not Recommended
Golden Wonder Killifish: PeacefulJapanese Ricefish (Medaka): Peaceful

Golden Wonder Killifish & Clown Killifish

·

🔴Not Recommended
Golden Wonder Killifish: PeacefulClown Killifish: Peaceful

Golden Wonder Killifish & African Butterfly Fish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Golden Wonder Killifish: PeacefulAfrican Butterfly Fish: Peaceful

Golden Wonder Killifish & Betta (Siamese Fighting Fish)

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Golden Wonder Killifish: PeacefulBetta (Siamese Fighting Fish): Peaceful

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) & Black Ghost Knifefish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish): PeacefulBlack Ghost Knifefish: Peaceful

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) & Clown Knifefish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish): PeacefulClown Knifefish: Peaceful

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) & Peter's Elephantnose Fish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish): PeacefulPeter's Elephantnose Fish: Peaceful

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) & Fire Eel

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish): PeacefulFire Eel: Peaceful

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) & Tire Track Eel

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish): PeacefulTire Track Eel: Peaceful

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) & Florida Gar

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish): PeacefulFlorida Gar: Peaceful