Can Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 6, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 150 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Guppy

Poecilia reticulata

Lorentz's Rainbowfish

Chilatherina lorentzii

🐠Family Group
Guppy
Livebearers
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish
Temperament
Guppy
Peaceful (1/10)
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Guppy
22–28°C
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
26–30°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Guppy
7–8.5
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
7.2–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Guppy
8–30
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
8–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Guppy
Brackish Tolerant
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Guppy
Low
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 150 L
Guppy
38 L
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
150 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Guppy
TopMiddle
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Guppy
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Fry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish?

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.

Guppy
Lorentz's Rainbowfish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Guppy is a peaceful species (1/10), while Lorentz's Rainbowfish is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Lorentz's Rainbowfish may occasionally assert dominance over Guppy.

Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish both frequent the Top (Surface) and 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.

Worth noting: Lorentz's Rainbowfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 26°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 27.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.2 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 8–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 150 litres with a minimum length of 90 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 - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater. 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 Works in Practice

Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish.

Show 9 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish live together?

Yes. Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish need?

A minimum of 150 litres (tank length at least 90 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 Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish together?

Keep the aquarium between 26°C and 28°C. A target of around 27.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Guppy or Lorentz's Rainbowfish aggressive?

Guppy is peaceful (1/10) and Lorentz's Rainbowfish is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Guppy and Lorentz's Rainbowfish need?

Both species overlap in the 7.2–8 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?
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