Can Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail 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 19 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Least Killifish (Heterandria)

Heterandria formosa

Ramshorn Snail

Planorbidae fam.

🐠Family Group
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Livebearers
Ramshorn Snail
Invertebrates
Temperament
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Peaceful (1/10)
Ramshorn Snail
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
18–27°C
Ramshorn Snail
15–30°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
7–8
Ramshorn Snail
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
5–20
Ramshorn Snail
8–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Brackish Tolerant
Ramshorn Snail
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Low
Ramshorn Snail
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 19 L
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
19 L
Ramshorn Snail
5 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 3 zones
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
TopMiddleBottom
Ramshorn Snail
BottomMiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Ramshorn Snail
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail?

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.

Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Ramshorn Snail
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Least Killifish (Heterandria) is a peaceful species (1/10), while Ramshorn Snail is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Least Killifish (Heterandria) may occasionally assert dominance over Ramshorn Snail.

Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail both frequent the Top (Surface), Middle (Open Water), and Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 18°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 22.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 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 8–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail together, plan for an aquarium of at least 19 litres with a minimum length of 30 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, 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail.

Show 27 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail live together?

Yes. Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail need?

A minimum of 19 litres (tank length at least 30 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail together?

Keep the aquarium between 18°C and 27°C. A target of around 22.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Least Killifish (Heterandria) or Ramshorn Snail aggressive?

Least Killifish (Heterandria) is peaceful (1/10) and Ramshorn Snail is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Ramshorn Snail need?

Both species overlap in the 7–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


Related Comparisons