Can Golden Wonder Killifish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Golden Wonder Killifish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 90 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

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)

Poecilia sphenops

🐠Family Group
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Livebearers
Temperament
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
7.5–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
12–30
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 90 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
75 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry PredatorAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)

Behaviour & Temperament

Golden Wonder Killifish is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Golden Wonder Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian).

Golden Wonder Killifish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) 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.

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 7.5 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 12–20 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 Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) 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.

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, Plants - Densely covered, Established Algae (Otocinclus). 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Golden Wonder Killifish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 90 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Golden Wonder Killifish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) 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 Golden Wonder Killifish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) 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 Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) aggressive?

Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10) and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Golden Wonder Killifish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) need?

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


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