Can Murray River Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 6, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Murray River Rainbowfish 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 110 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Murray River Rainbowfish

Melanotaenia fluviatilis

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

🐠Family Group
Murray River Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Murray River Rainbowfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Murray River Rainbowfish
20–26°C
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Murray River Rainbowfish
6.5–8
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Murray River Rainbowfish
8–20
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Murray River Rainbowfish
Freshwater Only
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Murray River Rainbowfish
Moderate
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 110 L
Murray River Rainbowfish
110 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Murray River Rainbowfish
TopMiddle
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Murray River Rainbowfish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Murray River Rainbowfish 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.

Murray River Rainbowfish
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Murray River Rainbowfish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Murray River Rainbowfish may occasionally assert dominance over Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Murray River Rainbowfish 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: Murray River Rainbowfish 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 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 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 8–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Murray River Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 90 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. 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.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Murray River Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Murray River Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Show 10 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Murray River Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish live together?

Yes. Murray River Rainbowfish 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 Murray River Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

A minimum of 110 litres (tank length at least 90 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 Murray River Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 26°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Murray River Rainbowfish or Norman's Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

Murray River Rainbowfish is peaceful (2/10) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Murray River Rainbowfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 6, 2026
Last updated
May 6, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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