Can Lyretail Killifish and Telmatochromis brichardi Live Together?

Lyretail Killifish is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while Telmatochromis brichardi is moderately assertive (6/10). This modest difference means Telmatochromis brichardi may occasionally assert dominance over Lyretail Killifish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Lyretail Killifish prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Telmatochromis brichardi occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Lyretail Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Lyretail Killifish (5.5–7) and Telmatochromis brichardi (8–9.3) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Lyretail Killifish and Telmatochromis brichardi together, plan for an aquarium of at least 75 litres with a minimum length of 60 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, Sand (Sifters), Shells (Breeding/Hiding), 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.

Lyretail Killifish and Telmatochromis brichardi 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.