Can Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Not Recommended

Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.


At a Glance

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

Sunset Hap

Dimidiochromis strigatus

🐠Family Group
Golden Wonder Killifish
Killifish
Sunset Hap
Cichlids - African
Temperament
Golden Wonder Killifish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Sunset Hap
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
22–28°C
Sunset Hap
24–28°C
pH Range
✗ No overlap
Golden Wonder Killifish
6–7.5
Sunset Hap
7.6–8.6
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
5–20
Sunset Hap
10–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
Brackish Tolerant
Sunset Hap
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Golden Wonder Killifish
Low
Sunset Hap
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 400 L
Golden Wonder Killifish
75 L
Sunset Hap
400 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Golden Wonder Killifish
Top
Sunset Hap
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Golden Wonder Killifish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Jumper (Lid Required)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorHyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Sunset Hap
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Aggressive to same species/look-alikesHyperactive / Fast SwimmerTerritorial (Defends specific area)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap?

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
Sunset Hap
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap 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 Sunset Hap 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.

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.

The pH requirements of Golden Wonder Killifish (6–7.5) and Sunset Hap (7.6–8.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap together, plan for an aquarium of at least 400 litres with a minimum length of 150 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

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 - Floating, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). 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.

Why This Pairing Usually Fails in Practice

Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap live together?

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

What size tank do Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap need?

A minimum of 400 litres (tank length at least 150 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 Sunset Hap 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 Sunset Hap aggressive?

Golden Wonder Killifish is moderately assertive (6/10) and Sunset Hap is moderately assertive (6/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Golden Wonder Killifish and Sunset Hap need?

Their pH requirements do not overlap. Golden Wonder Killifish prefers 6–7.5, while Sunset Hap needs 7.6–8.6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.

How do I manage Sunset Hap's territorial behaviour?

Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Sunset Hap space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

Last reviewed
May 4, 2026
Last updated
May 4, 2026
Issues or corrections?
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