Can Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) Live Together?

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

Keeping Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 40 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Largereye Lampeye Killifish

Micropanchax macrophthalmus

Least Killifish (Heterandria)

Heterandria formosa

🐠Family Group
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Livebearers
Temperament
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
18–27°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
6–7.5
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
7–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
5–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Low
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 40 L
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
40 L
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
19 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
TopMiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Jumper (Lid Required)
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria)?

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.

Largereye Lampeye Killifish
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) are peaceful species with an aggression score of 1/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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.

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

Worth noting: Largereye Lampeye 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 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 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.

Tank Setup

To house Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 40 litres with a minimum length of 45 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 - Densely covered, Plants - Floating. 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 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. Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria).

Show 21 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 40 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) need?

A minimum of 40 litres (tank length at least 45 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 Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 27°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Largereye Lampeye Killifish or Least Killifish (Heterandria) aggressive?

Largereye Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10) and Least Killifish (Heterandria) is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Largereye Lampeye Killifish and Least Killifish (Heterandria) need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 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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