Can Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 11, 2026
Not Recommended

Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora 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

Least Killifish (Heterandria)

Heterandria formosa

Redline Rasbora

Rasbora pauciperforata

🐠Family Group
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Livebearers
Redline Rasbora
Cyprinids
Temperament
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Peaceful (1/10)
Redline Rasbora
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
18–27°C
Redline Rasbora
22–27°C
pH Range
✗ No overlap
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
7–8
Redline Rasbora
4–6.8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
5–20
Redline Rasbora
1–8
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Brackish Tolerant
Redline Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Low
Redline Rasbora
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 80 L
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
19 L
Redline Rasbora
80 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
TopMiddleBottom
Redline Rasbora
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Redline Rasbora
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Jumper (Lid Required)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora?

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)
Redline Rasbora
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora 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.

Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora 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: Redline Rasbora is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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.

The pH requirements of Least Killifish (Heterandria) (7–8) and Redline Rasbora (4–6.8) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora together, plan for an aquarium of at least 80 litres with a minimum length of 80 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, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). 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

Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora.

Show 12 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora live together?

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

What size tank do Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora need?

A minimum of 80 litres (tank length at least 80 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 Redline Rasbora 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) or Redline Rasbora aggressive?

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

What pH do Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Redline Rasbora need?

Their pH requirements do not overlap. Least Killifish (Heterandria) prefers 7–8, while Redline Rasbora needs 4–6.8. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

Last reviewed
May 11, 2026
Last updated
May 11, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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