Golden Wonder Killifish (Aplocheilus lineatus) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Semi-Aggressive Easy

Golden Wonder Killifish

Aplocheilus lineatus

Minimum Tank

20 Gallons

Adult Size

4 inches

Temperature

72-77°F (22-25°C)

pH Range

6.0-7.5

Lifespan

4 years

About Golden Wonder Killifish

The golden wonder killifish is a striking, medium-sized surface predator selectively bred from the striped panchax of India and Sri Lanka. Its body is a vibrant golden-yellow with iridescent scales that shimmer under light, and its large, upturned mouth is perfectly adapted for grabbing prey from the water surface. Golden wonder killifish are active hunters that patrol the top water layer, watching for insects, small invertebrates, and any unfortunate small fish that ventures too close. They are a non-annual killifish species, meaning they live for several years and do not require special drying periods for their eggs. Their bold personality and stunning coloring make them an eye-catching addition to the upper water level.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

  • • Minimum 20-gallon tank required
  • • Temperature: 72-77°F (22-25°C)
  • • pH: 6.0 - 7.5
  • • Category: Killifish

Diet & Feeding

  • • Diet type: Carnivore
  • • Feed 1-2 times daily
  • • Varied diet recommended

Tank Mate Compatibility

Compatible With

🐟 Larger Tetras
🐟 Barbs
🐟 Corydoras

Avoid Keeping With

⚠️
Small Fish Not compatible
⚠️
Shrimp Not compatible
⚠️
Surface Dwellers Not compatible

Care Tips

Expert Tips

Golden wonder killifish are surface-dwelling predators that will eat any fish or shrimp small enough to fit in their large mouths, so choose tankmates carefully. Keep them with robust, mid-to-bottom-dwelling fish of similar size or larger. They need a tank of at least 20 gallons with a very secure, tight-fitting lid, as they are exceptional jumpers that will leap through surprisingly small gaps. They prefer warm water at 72-77°F with moderate flow. Feed floating pellets, freeze-dried foods, and frozen or live insects like wingless fruit flies and small crickets. Males can be territorial toward each other, so keep one male or provide ample space. They are hardy and adaptable to a range of conditions.

Quick Facts

76L

Min Tank (20gal)

10cm

Adult Size (4")

4yr

Lifespan

1+

Can Keep Solo

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Frequently Asked Questions

What size tank does a Golden Wonder Killifish need?

A Golden Wonder Killifish needs a minimum tank size of 20 gallons (76 litres).

What water parameters does a Golden Wonder Killifish need?

Golden Wonder Killifish thrive in water between 72-77°F (22-25°C) with a pH of 6.0-7.5.

Are Golden Wonder Killifish easy to care for?

Golden Wonder Killifish are considered easy to care for. They are semi-aggressive fish with a lifespan of about 4 years.

How big do Golden Wonder Killifish get and what do they eat?

Golden Wonder Killifish reach about 4 inches and are carnivores. Golden wonder killifish are surface-dwelling predators that will eat any fish or shrimp small enough to fit in their large mouths, so choose tankmates carefully. Keep them with robust, mid-to-bottom-dwelling fish of similar size or larger. They need a tank of at least 20 gallons with a very secure, tight-fitting lid, as they are exceptional jumpers that will leap through surprisingly small gaps. They prefer warm water at 72-77°F with moderate flow. Feed floating pellets, freeze-dried foods, and frozen or live insects like wingless fruit flies and small crickets. Males can be territorial toward each other, so keep one male or provide ample space. They are hardy and adaptable to a range of conditions.