Can Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 38 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)

Melanoides tuberculata

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

🐠Family Group
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Invertebrates
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Peaceful (0/10)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
18–32°C
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
7–8.5
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
8–25
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Brackish Tolerant
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Low
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 38 L
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
5 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Bottom
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Nocturnal
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish?

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.

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is a peaceful species (0/10), while Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Norman's Lampeye Killifish may occasionally assert dominance over Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS).

In terms of spatial distribution, Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Norman's Lampeye Killifish occupies the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Norman's Lampeye Killifish 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 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 8–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye 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: Sand (Sifters), Soil / Nutrient Rich, Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating. 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 Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Show 22 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish live together?

Yes. Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

A minimum of 38 litres (tank length at least 45 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 Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) or Norman's Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is peaceful (0/10) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Does Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) during evening hours.


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