Can Licorice Gourami and Lyretail Killifish Live Together?

Licorice Gourami is a peaceful species (2/10), while Lyretail Killifish is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Lyretail Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Licorice Gourami.

Licorice Gourami and Lyretail Killifish both frequent the 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: Lyretail Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 5.5 and 6. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 1–4 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Licorice Gourami and Lyretail Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 38 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.

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: Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, 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.