Can Mbu Puffer and Threadfin Rainbowfish Live Together?

Mbu Puffer is a semi-aggressive species (7/10), while Threadfin Rainbowfish is peaceful (1/10). This notable difference means Mbu Puffer may occasionally assert dominance over Threadfin Rainbowfish.

Large aggression gap (6 points) between Mbu Puffer and Threadfin Rainbowfish increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

Mbu Puffer and Threadfin Rainbowfish 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.

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

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Aggressive eaters may outcompete shy fish for food, leading to malnutrition.

Worth noting: Threadfin Rainbowfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°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 10–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Mbu Puffer and Threadfin Rainbowfish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1800 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

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), Shells (Breeding/Hiding), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Mbu Puffer is an aggressive eater that may prevent Threadfin Rainbowfish from getting enough food.

Because Mbu Puffer is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Threadfin Rainbowfish receives an adequate share.