Can Golden Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra Live Together?

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

Keeping Golden Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels and mismatched flow preferences. Provide a spacious tank of at least 200 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

Long-Finned African Tetra

Brycinus longipinnis

🐠Family Group
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Long-Finned African Tetra
Characins
Temperament
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Long-Finned African Tetra
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
Long-Finned African Tetra
22–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Long-Finned African Tetra
6–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Long-Finned African Tetra
5–19
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Long-Finned African Tetra
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✗ No overlap
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Long-Finned African Tetra
High
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 200 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Long-Finned African Tetra
200 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
Long-Finned African Tetra
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Long-Finned African Tetra
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry PredatorAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Golden Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra?

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 Wonder Killifish
Long-Finned African Tetra
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Golden Wonder Killifish is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Long-Finned African Tetra is peaceful (2/10). This notable difference means Golden Wonder Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Long-Finned African Tetra.

Golden Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra both frequent the Top (Surface) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

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 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 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 5–19 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Golden Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra together, plan for an aquarium of at least 200 litres with a minimum length of 120 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 - Floating, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Golden Wonder Killifish prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Long-Finned African Tetra needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.

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 Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra 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 Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra.

Show 5 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Golden Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 200 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Golden Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra need?

A minimum of 200 litres (tank length at least 120 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 Long-Finned African Tetra together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 26°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Golden Wonder Killifish or Long-Finned African Tetra aggressive?

Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10) and Long-Finned African Tetra is peaceful (2/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Golden Wonder Killifish and Long-Finned African Tetra 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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