Can Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated April 28, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 19 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Rachov's Killifish (Annual)

Nothobranchius rachovii

Ramshorn Snail

Planorbidae fam.

🐠Family Group
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Killifish
Ramshorn Snail
Invertebrates
Temperament
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Ramshorn Snail
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
20–26°C
Ramshorn Snail
15–30°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
6–7.5
Ramshorn Snail
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
4–12
Ramshorn Snail
8–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Freshwater Only
Ramshorn Snail
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Low
Ramshorn Snail
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 19 L
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
19 L
Ramshorn Snail
5 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
MiddleBottom
Ramshorn Snail
BottomMiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)
Ramshorn Snail
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail?

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.

Rachov's Killifish (Annual)
Ramshorn Snail
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while Ramshorn Snail is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Rachov's Killifish (Annual) may occasionally assert dominance over Ramshorn Snail.

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and Bottom (Substrate) 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: Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 20°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.0°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 8–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail together, plan for an aquarium of at least 19 litres with a minimum length of 30 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Soil / Nutrient Rich, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered, 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.

Why This Pairing Needs Extra Planning in Practice

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail.

Show 27 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 19 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail need?

A minimum of 19 litres (tank length at least 30 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 Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail together?

Keep the aquarium between 20°C and 26°C. A target of around 23.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Rachov's Killifish (Annual) or Ramshorn Snail aggressive?

Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is generally mild-mannered (3/10) and Ramshorn Snail is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Rachov's Killifish (Annual) and Ramshorn Snail 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.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

Last reviewed
April 28, 2026
Last updated
April 28, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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