Can Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Sunset Hap Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Not Recommended

Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Sunset Hap are not recommended as tank mates due to piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates.. 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

Sunset Hap

Dimidiochromis strigatus

🐠Family Group
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Livebearers
Sunset Hap
Cichlids - African
Temperament
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Peaceful (1/10)
Sunset Hap
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
18–27°C
Sunset Hap
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
7–8
Sunset Hap
7.6–8.6
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
5–20
Sunset Hap
10–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Brackish Tolerant
Sunset Hap
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Low
Sunset Hap
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 400 L
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
19 L
Sunset Hap
400 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
TopMiddleBottom
Sunset Hap
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Sunset Hap
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Aggressive to same species/look-alikesHyperactive / Fast SwimmerTerritorial (Defends specific area)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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.

Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Sunset Hap
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Least Killifish (Heterandria) is a peaceful species (1/10), while Sunset Hap is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Sunset Hap may occasionally assert dominance over Least Killifish (Heterandria).

Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Sunset Hap both frequent the 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.

There is a critical concern: the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

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

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.6 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 10–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 - Densely covered, 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

Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Sunset Hap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) 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 Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Sunset Hap together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 27°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Least Killifish (Heterandria) or Sunset Hap aggressive?

Least Killifish (Heterandria) is peaceful (1/10) and Sunset Hap is moderately assertive (6/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Least Killifish (Heterandria) and Sunset Hap need?

Both species overlap in the 7.6–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

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?
Contact the editorial team

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