Can Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) 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. A minimum tank size of 90 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)

Poecilia sphenops

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

🐠Family Group
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Livebearers
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
24–28°C
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
7.5–8.5
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
12–30
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Brackish Tolerant
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Moderate
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 90 L
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
75 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
TopMiddle
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry PredatorAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator

Behaviour & Temperament

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) may occasionally assert dominance over Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish both frequent the Top (Surface) and 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: 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 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 7.5 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 12–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 90 litres with a minimum length of 60 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: Plants - Densely covered, Established Algae (Otocinclus), 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.

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish live together?

Yes. Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) 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 Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

A minimum of 90 litres (tank length at least 60 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 Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) or Norman's Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) is generally mild-mannered (3/10) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

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


Related Comparisons

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) & Platy

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian): PeacefulPlaty: Peaceful

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) & Swordtail

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian): PeacefulSwordtail: Peaceful

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) & Endler's Livebearer

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian): PeacefulEndler's Livebearer: Peaceful

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) & Guppy

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian): PeacefulGuppy: Peaceful

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) & Least Killifish (Heterandria)

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian): PeacefulLeast Killifish (Heterandria): Peaceful

Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) & Wrestling Halfbeak

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian): PeacefulWrestling Halfbeak: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Clown Killifish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulClown Killifish: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Rachov's Killifish (Annual)

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulRachov's Killifish (Annual): Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Amazon Puffer

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulAmazon Puffer: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Black Neon Tetra

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulBlack Neon Tetra: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Boeseman's Rainbowfish

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulBoeseman's Rainbowfish: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Congo Tetra

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulCongo Tetra: Peaceful