Cichlids are among the most captivating freshwater fish you can keep—vibrant colors, intelligent behavior, and fascinating social structures make them stand out in any aquarium. Yet, they’re also known for their territorial and sometimes aggressive nature. That’s why so many aquarists wonder: what fish can live with cichlids without chaos erupting in the tank?
This guide dives deep into compatibility, behavior, and practical strategies to help you create a harmonious cichlid community. Whether you’re keeping African or South American varieties, understanding what fish can share the same tank with cichlids safely is the foundation for a thriving aquarium.
In This Article
Understanding the Challenge of Mixing Fish with Cichlids
Cichlids are not your average peaceful community fish. These species—ranging from African lake dwellers to South American river beauties—are known for complex hierarchies and territorial instincts. Their aggression isn’t “bad behavior” but rather a survival strategy in the wild.
When you plan a mixed tank, the question “what fish can live with cichlids?” isn’t about luck—it’s about biology, temperament, and environment.
Why Compatibility Matters
- Territorial behavior: Cichlids defend specific zones in the aquarium, especially during breeding.
- Size difference: Smaller or slower fish can easily become targets.
- Water parameters: African and South American cichlids thrive in very different conditions.
If you ignore these factors, you’ll likely see injuries, stress, or even fatalities. However, when done correctly—with the right companions and setup—cichlid tanks can become dynamic, colorful ecosystems full of life and energy.
Knowing Your Cichlid Type Before Choosing Tank Mates
Before you decide what fish can live with cichlids, you must first know what kind of cichlids you own. Not all cichlids behave the same way. Some, like African Mbunas, are highly territorial, while others, such as South American Angelfish, can be surprisingly peaceful.
Here’s a breakdown of the main types and what makes them unique:
| Type of Cichlid | Origin | Common Species | Temperament | Water Preference (pH / Temp) |
| African Cichlids (Lake Malawi) | Africa | Mbuna, Peacock, Haplochromis | Aggressive / Territorial | Alkaline (7.8–8.6) / 24–28°C |
| African Cichlids (Lake Tanganyika) | Africa | Frontosa, Julidochromis | Semi-aggressive | Alkaline (8.0–9.0) / 24–27°C |
| South American Cichlids | Amazon Basin | Angelfish, Discus, Oscar, Severum | Calm to Aggressive (varies) | Slightly acidic (6.0–7.0) / 26–30°C |
| Central American Cichlids | Central America | Convict, Firemouth, Jack Dempsey | Aggressive / Territorial | Neutral (7.0–7.5) / 25–28°C |
Key Insight:
If your cichlids are from Lake Malawi or Tanganyika, they’ll prefer hard, alkaline water and rocky scapes. In contrast, South American cichlids need softer, slightly acidic water and more plants.
So, the first rule of compatibility is matching species that share similar environmental needs.
For example:
- African cichlids thrive with Synodontis catfish or Plecos that can tolerate the same hard water.
- South American cichlids, like Oscars or Severums, do well with Silver Dollars or larger Tetras.
Choosing the right environment ensures not only survival but also natural behavior, brighter coloration, and reduced aggression.
Key Factors in Choosing What Fish Can Live with Cichlids
Picking the right tank mates for cichlids requires more than just choosing “tough fish.” It’s about balance—tank space, temperament, and environment all play a part. Below are crucial elements to consider before adding any new fish.
1. Tank Size and Territory
Cichlids need ample space to claim territories. Overcrowding can cause constant fights, while too much open space might leave timid species exposed.
- For smaller African species (like Mbunas): 55 gallons minimum.
- For large Oscars or Jack Dempseys: 75–100 gallons minimum.
Provide rock formations, caves, or driftwood to create boundaries. These physical dividers help reduce aggression dramatically.
2. Water Parameters
Different cichlid species demand different water chemistry:
- African Cichlids: Hard, alkaline water (pH 7.8–8.6).
- South American Cichlids: Softer, acidic water (pH 6.0–7.0).
Matching water parameters for all inhabitants is non-negotiable. Even a perfect temperament match can fail if the environment isn’t right.
3. Diet Compatibility
Cichlids are omnivores, but dietary needs vary. Mixing herbivorous Mbunas with carnivorous species can cause health issues. Ensure all tank mates accept similar foods—pellets, flakes, and occasional frozen treats.
4. Temperament Balance
Avoid mixing hyper-aggressive species with peaceful ones. Pair fish that can hold their own but won’t provoke cichlids. Quick swimmers or bottom dwellers often do best since they occupy different tank levels.
5. Gender and Group Dynamics
In cichlid tanks, male-to-female ratios affect harmony. Multiple males of the same species may fight, while balanced gender groups disperse aggression. Adding similarly sized tank mates also helps prevent bullying.
6. Hiding Spots and Visual Barriers
Strategically placed décor gives weaker fish places to retreat. Caves, rocks, or dense plants break line-of-sight, reducing direct confrontations and helping all fish feel secure.
Expert Tip:
“If you want to know what fish can live with cichlids, start by designing the tank for peace first, fish second. The right environment makes almost any compatible pairing possible.”
— AquaLife Magazine, 2024
Best Tank Mates for African Cichlids
African cichlids, particularly those from Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika, are admired for their dazzling colors and high energy. But they’re also notorious for being territorial. To determine what fish can live with African cichlids, we must look for species that are tough, fast, and adaptable to hard, alkaline water.
Compatible Fish for African Cichlid Tanks
| Fish Species | Why It Works | Tank Zone |
| Synodontis Catfish | Native to similar African lakes; thick skin and sharp spines protect them. Excellent scavengers. | Bottom |
| Bristlenose Pleco | Peaceful algae-eater, helps keep glass and rocks clean. | Bottom |
| Red Tail Shark | Agile, bold, and fast enough to avoid aggression. | Mid to bottom |
| Rainbowfish | Colorful, quick swimmers that thrive in alkaline water. | Top to mid |
| Clown Loach (in larger tanks) | Sociable and sturdy; can hold their own with moderate aggression levels. | Bottom |
African Cichlid Compatibility Tips
- Maintain at least 1.5–2 gallons of water per inch of fish to minimize territorial disputes.
- Rearrange rocks and caves whenever new fish are introduced—this resets territories.
- Keep cichlids in slightly overcrowded setups (controlled chaos) to spread out aggression instead of letting one dominant fish bully others.
Quick Fact:
African cichlids recognize tank mates by color and pattern. Introducing similarly colored fish often sparks fights, so choose neutral or contrasting tones to avoid mistaken identity.
Best Tank Mates for South American Cichlids
South American cichlids are a different story altogether. These species, including Oscars, Severums, Angelfish, and Discus, tend to be more intelligent and exhibit a broader range of temperaments—from gentle to fiery.
When asking “what fish can live with South American cichlids,” it’s essential to consider water softness, temperature, and peaceful social behavior.
Compatible Fish for South American Cichlids
| Fish Species | Compatibility Reason | Ideal Pairing |
| Silver Dollar Fish | Large, schooling fish that swim in the mid to upper levels. Fast enough to avoid aggression. | Oscars, Severums |
| Corydoras Catfish | Gentle bottom dwellers that clean leftovers. Non-threatening and peaceful. | Angelfish, Keyhole Cichlids |
| Bristlenose Pleco | Hardy, adaptable, and useful for algae control. | All South American species |
| Giant Danios | Active swimmers that help disperse aggression by keeping cichlids distracted. | Oscars, Firemouths |
| Large Tetras (Congo, Bleeding Heart, Buenos Aires) | Peaceful schooling species that add color and movement. | Angelfish, Severums |
Tank Environment for Peaceful Coexistence
- Use driftwood, plants, and soft lighting to replicate the Amazonian habitat.
- Maintain water between 26–30°C with a pH around 6.0–7.0.
- Avoid strong currents; South American cichlids prefer calm water flow.
Example Setup
A 100-gallon tank with:
- 2 Oscars
- 5 Silver Dollars
- 3 Bristlenose Plecos
- Driftwood, smooth stones, and live plants
This balance allows each species to occupy a different zone of the tank, minimizing tension.
Pro Insight:
“South American cichlids form social relationships. When grouped wisely, they develop remarkable personalities—often recognizing their owners and forming pecking orders similar to wild hierarchies.”
— Dr. David E. Boruchowitz, Aquarium Fish Magazine
What Fish Should NOT Live with Cichlids
When deciding what fish can live with cichlids, it’s equally important to know what fish should never share a tank with them. Incompatible tank mates can lead to constant stress, fin-nipping, and even fatal injuries.
Species to Avoid
- Guppies, Mollies, and Platies – Too small and peaceful; easy targets.
- Neon or Cardinal Tetras – Thrive in acidic water and are prone to being eaten.
- Goldfish – Prefer cold, soft water and are incompatible with warm, hard cichlid tanks.
- Betta Fish – Territorial and fragile compared to cichlids’ strength.
- Shrimp or Snails – Likely to become live snacks within hours.
Why These Fish Don’t Work
| Reason | Explanation |
| Different Water Needs | Soft vs. hard water or cold vs. warm temperature conflicts. |
| Size Mismatch | Small fish often become prey. |
| Stress Susceptibility | Non-aggressive species can’t handle cichlid dominance. |
| Dietary Differences | Carnivorous cichlids may outcompete others for food. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mixing African and South American cichlids together.
- Adding slow-moving or fancy-finned fish that attract aggression.
- Over-decorating without planning hiding zones or line-of-sight breaks.
Think of cichlids like underwater lions—majestic and powerful, but not ideal neighbors for delicate fish.
How to Introduce New Fish to a Cichlid Tank
Even if you’ve carefully researched what fish can live with cichlids, the introduction process can make or break your setup. Cichlids are extremely territorial and may attack newcomers out of instinct. Proper acclimation and strategy are essential.
Step-by-Step Introduction Method
- Rearrange the Tank Before Adding Fish
Move rocks, plants, and caves around. This disrupts established territories and prevents resident cichlids from immediately claiming the same spots. - Use a Tank Divider or Breeder Box
Place the new fish behind a transparent divider for 2–3 days. This allows visual interaction without physical aggression, giving everyone time to adjust. - Acclimate Slowly
Float the bag or container for 15–20 minutes to equalize temperature. Gradually mix small amounts of tank water into the bag every 5 minutes before release. - Add Fish After Feeding Time
Well-fed cichlids are calmer. Introducing new tank mates right after feeding reduces predatory or territorial behavior. - Monitor Behavior Closely
For the first 48 hours, watch for chasing, fin-nipping, or hiding. If aggression persists, separate the bullied fish temporarily and try reintroduction later.
Tip: Adding new fish in small groups, rather than one by one, prevents a single newcomer from being targeted.
Signs of Trouble
| Behavior | Meaning |
| Rapid chasing or ramming | Territorial aggression |
| Hiding or dull coloration | Stress response |
| Damaged fins or missing scales | Physical attacks |
| Hovering at the surface | Severe stress or poor water quality |
If aggressive behavior doesn’t subside within a few days, it’s better to rehome one of the conflicting species rather than risk ongoing harm.
Managing Aggression in a Cichlid Tank
Aggression is natural among cichlids—it’s part of their instinct. But too much hostility can disrupt the entire aquarium. Understanding why it happens helps you create balance and harmony even in active cichlid communities.
Why Cichlids Get Aggressive
- Territory Defense: Especially during breeding or feeding.
- Hierarchy Conflicts: Dominant males assert rank.
- Lack of Hiding Places: No refuge leads to constant pursuit.
- Wrong Tank Mates: Peaceful or slow fish often trigger unwanted dominance behavior.
Proven Ways to Reduce Aggression
- Provide Multiple Hiding Spots
Rocks, caves, driftwood, and PVC pipes create safe zones and break the line of sight. - Keep Them Busy
Add visual barriers, floating plants, or gentle currents to stimulate exploration and reduce boredom-driven aggression. - Maintain a Proper Male-to-Female Ratio
Especially in African cichlid tanks—1 male per 3–4 females reduces fighting and courtship stress. - Feed Adequately and Evenly
Use multiple feeding points so dominant fish don’t monopolize food. - Avoid Overcrowding or Understocking
Surprisingly, slightly overstocked tanks (when filtration supports it) work better for African cichlids, spreading aggression across more fish.
Aggression Control Table
| Cause | Prevention Strategy |
| Breeding aggression | Remove fry or isolate pairs temporarily |
| Dominance fighting | Rearrange tank décor monthly |
| Stress or hunger | Feed more frequent small meals |
| Overcrowded territory | Upgrade to larger tank or add visual barriers |
“A peaceful cichlid tank isn’t about removing aggression—it’s about redirecting it through smart design and proper species balance.”
— The Cichlid Room Companion
What Fish Can Live with Cichlids in Small vs Large Tanks
Tank size plays a major role in determining what fish can live with cichlids successfully. A 40-gallon aquarium and a 125-gallon aquarium create entirely different social dynamics.
In Small Tanks (Under 55 Gallons)
- Suitable for smaller African species like Yellow Labs (Labidochromis caeruleus) or Rusty Cichlids.
- Ideal companions:
- Synodontis Catfish (bottom dwellers)
- Bristlenose Plecos
- Small Rainbowfish
- Synodontis Catfish (bottom dwellers)
- Keep décor dense with plenty of rocks and hiding spots.
- Avoid multiple males of the same species in tight spaces.
Example Setup (50 gallons):
1 Male Yellow Lab + 3 Females + 2 Synodontis Catfish + 1 Bristlenose Pleco
Balanced, colorful, and peaceful when properly managed.
In Medium to Large Tanks (75–125 Gallons and Up)
Bigger tanks give cichlids more space to claim territories, which opens up more compatibility options.
Here’s where you can mix larger South American or African cichlids with semi-aggressive companions.
Recommended Combinations:
- Oscars with Silver Dollars or Severums
- Peacock Cichlids with Red Tail Sharks or Rainbowfish
- Jack Dempseys with Giant Danios or Bristlenose Plecos
Pro Setup (100 gallons):
| Fish Species | Count | Tank Zone |
| Oscar Cichlid | 2 | Mid |
| Silver Dollar Fish | 5 | Mid to top |
| Bristlenose Pleco | 2 | Bottom |
This combination works because each species occupies a unique zone, reducing direct competition.
Tank Size Comparison Chart
| Tank Size | Recommended Cichlid Type | Compatible Tank Mates |
| 40–55 gallons | Small African cichlids | Synodontis, Plecos, small Rainbows |
| 75 gallons | Medium cichlids (Firemouth, Electric Blue) | Red Tail Shark, Corydoras |
| 100+ gallons | Large South American cichlids (Oscar, Severum) | Silver Dollars, Giant Danios |
Aquascaping Insight:
In smaller tanks, line-of-sight breaks are crucial. In larger tanks, use territorial clusters (rock piles or driftwood zones) to help cichlids establish balanced dominance without stressing their neighbors.
Special Considerations: Breeding Cichlids and Tank Mates
Even the most peaceful cichlid tank can become chaotic when breeding begins. Cichlids are devoted parents, and their protective instincts often skyrocket during spawning. Understanding how breeding impacts what fish can live with cichlids is crucial for maintaining balance.
Why Breeding Changes Behavior
When a pair prepares to spawn, they stake out a section of the tank, clean surfaces, and chase away any perceived threats—including long-term tank mates.
Males become more territorial, while females guard the eggs or fry fiercely.
Managing Tank Mates During Breeding
- Separate Breeding Pairs:
If you plan to breed cichlids intentionally, use a dedicated breeding tank to prevent aggression toward other fish. - Rearrange Territories:
If breeding happens unexpectedly, rearrange rocks and caves to confuse territorial boundaries. This helps diffuse aggression temporarily. - Add Visual Barriers:
Dense rockwork, plants, or driftwood reduce direct line-of-sight and give non-breeding fish safe zones. - Watch for Stress in Tank Mates:
Signs like hiding, dull coloration, or torn fins mean your other fish are under attack. It’s best to move them out.
Example Case Study: African Mbuna Breeding Tank
| Fish Type | Behavior During Breeding | Tank Mate Safety |
| Yellow Lab (Labidochromis caeruleus) | Moderate aggression increase | Safe with Synodontis Catfish |
| Red Zebra (Maylandia estherae) | Extremely territorial | Unsafe for smaller species |
| Electric Blue (Sciaenochromis ahli) | Defends fry aggressively | Unsafe with mid-sized tank mates |
Expert Note:
“Even gentle cichlids become fiercely protective parents. Planning ahead for breeding behavior prevents chaos in community tanks.”
— Cichlid Research Institute, 2023
Aquascaping Tips to Help Fish Live with Cichlids
Designing your aquarium with intention is one of the most powerful tools for ensuring peace. The right aquascape can reduce aggression, mimic natural habitats, and allow compatible fish to thrive together.
Key Aquascaping Principles for Cichlid Tanks
- Create Multiple Territories
- Use rock piles, caves, and arches to form several distinct zones.
- Each male cichlid should have a clear area to claim.
- Use rock piles, caves, and arches to form several distinct zones.
- Break Line-of-Sight
- Position décor so that fish cannot see across the entire tank.
- This limits direct confrontations and allows weaker fish to hide safely.
- Position décor so that fish cannot see across the entire tank.
- Use Natural Materials
- For African cichlids: limestone, coral sand, and slate help maintain alkaline pH.
- For South American cichlids: driftwood, soft sand, and live plants like Amazon swords mimic river habitats.
- For African cichlids: limestone, coral sand, and slate help maintain alkaline pH.
- Balance Open Space and Shelter
- Open swimming areas are vital for active species like peacocks or Oscars.
- Shelters provide rest zones for bottom dwellers like plecos or catfish.
- Open swimming areas are vital for active species like peacocks or Oscars.
Example Aquascape Layouts
| Region | Style | Key Features |
| African Lake Setup | Rocky Caves & Craters | Alkaline sand substrate, stacked rocks, few plants |
| South American River Setup | Natural Driftwood Jungle | Sand bed, live plants, tannin-rich driftwood |
| Mixed Semi-Aggressive Setup | Hybrid Design | Balanced rocks + wood + artificial caves |
Lighting and Flow
Soft, indirect lighting reduces stress and aggression. Moderate water flow prevents debris buildup while simulating natural currents.
Aquascaping Wisdom:
“Cichlids defend what they see. When you break sightlines and define zones, aggression levels drop dramatically.”
— Aquascape Journal, 2024
Common Myths About What Fish Can Live with Cichlids
When it comes to what fish can live with cichlids, misinformation spreads easily among beginners. Let’s debunk the most common myths that often lead to disastrous tank setups.
Myth 1: “Cichlids Can’t Have Any Tank Mates”
Completely false. While many species are aggressive, compatibility is about balance, not isolation.
With the right environment and species selection, peaceful cohabitation is very possible.
Truth:
Cichlids can live with robust companions like Synodontis catfish, Rainbowfish, or Silver Dollars—provided conditions match.
Myth 2: “Size Determines Safety”
Many assume that keeping large fish with cichlids guarantees peace. Not true.
A large but passive fish (like a Gourami) can still be bullied by smaller, more assertive cichlids.
Truth:
Temperament and speed matter more than size.
Myth 3: “All Cichlids Behave the Same”
There’s a massive behavioral difference between Mbunas, Angelfish, and Oscars.
Assuming they share the same temperament leads to bad pairings.
Truth:
Always match species by region, temperament, and water chemistry—not just because they’re all cichlids.
Myth 4: “Adding More Fish Reduces Aggression Instantly”
While mild overstocking can help, overcrowding a tank can lead to stress, disease, and oxygen depletion.
Truth:
Overstocking should be used carefully, supported by strong filtration and frequent maintenance.
Myth 5: “Decor Doesn’t Matter”
Some aquarists underestimate aquascaping, but layout directly impacts aggression levels.
Truth:
Rocks, caves, and driftwood are not just decoration—they’re essential tools for managing territorial fish.
Quote to Remember:
“Cichlid compatibility isn’t about luck—it’s about understanding their psychology.”
— Fishkeeping World (source)
Maintenance and Feeding Tips for Mixed Cichlid Tanks
Once you’ve established a compatible community, proper maintenance and feeding are what keep your cichlids and their tank mates healthy long term. Cichlids are messy eaters and territorial feeders, so keeping the environment clean and nutrition balanced is vital.
Feeding Strategies
Cichlids are opportunistic omnivores, but their diets vary slightly by origin.
| Cichlid Type | Diet Preference | Best Foods |
| African Mbuna | Herbivorous | Spirulina flakes, algae wafers, blanched vegetables |
| Peacock / Haplochromis | Omnivorous | Pellets, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp |
| South American (Oscar, Severum) | Carnivorous | Earthworms, frozen shrimp, high-protein pellets |
| Angelfish / Discus | Omnivorous | Bloodworms, flakes, micro-pellets, frozen daphnia |
Feeding Guidelines
- Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions—just what they can eat within 2–3 minutes.
- Rotate between dry, frozen, and live foods to provide balanced nutrition.
- Remove leftover food quickly to prevent ammonia spikes.
- Feed tank mates with multiple feeding zones to ensure everyone gets their share.
Maintenance Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Purpose |
| Water change (25–30%) | Weekly | Removes waste and stabilizes water quality |
| Gravel vacuuming | Bi-weekly | Prevents buildup of uneaten food |
| Filter cleaning | Monthly | Keeps flow and oxygen steady |
| pH and temperature checks | Weekly | Ensures stability for sensitive species |
| Behavior observation | Daily | Detects stress, disease, or aggression early |
Tip: Use a strong canister filter rated for at least double your tank’s volume. Cichlids produce more waste than average freshwater fish.
Summary: Finding the Right Balance
Creating a peaceful and vibrant aquarium with cichlids is absolutely possible—it just requires planning, patience, and understanding their instincts.
The key to knowing what fish can live with cichlids is not simply toughness—it’s compatibility through behavior, water chemistry, and space.
Quick Compatibility Recap
| Cichlid Type | Compatible Tank Mates | Avoid These Fish |
| African (Malawi/Tanganyika) | Synodontis Catfish, Plecos, Rainbowfish, Red Tail Sharks | Goldfish, Tetras, Guppies |
| South American (Oscar, Angelfish, Severum) | Silver Dollars, Corydoras, Large Tetras, Bristlenose Plecos | Bettas, Small Tetras, Shrimp |
| Central American (Firemouth, Jack Dempsey) | Giant Danios, Large Barbs, Plecos | Peaceful or small community fish |
Key Takeaways
- Match tank mates based on region, temperament, and water chemistry.
- Use plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers to reduce aggression.
- Feed strategically and maintain top-notch filtration.
- Avoid mixing African and South American cichlids—their needs differ drastically.
- Watch your fish daily—subtle signs of stress can prevent major problems later.
Cichlids can be demanding, but when kept in a balanced community, their intelligence and color make them one of the most rewarding aquarium experiences.
FAQs: What Fish Can Live with Cichlids?
Q1. Can cichlids live with other cichlids?
Yes—but only within compatible species groups. African cichlids generally do best with other Africans from the same lake, while South Americans like Oscars or Severums pair better with fish from similar regions.
Q2. Can bottom dwellers live with cichlids?
Absolutely. Plecos and Synodontis Catfish are ideal bottom dwellers that help clean up waste and tolerate cichlid aggression well.
Q3. Can angelfish live with African cichlids?
Not recommended. Angelfish prefer soft, acidic water and are too gentle for African cichlids’ territorial nature. They thrive better with peaceful South American companions.
Q4. What is the safest community fish for African cichlids?
Rainbowfish and Red Tail Sharks are among the safest—they’re fast, hardy, and enjoy similar water parameters.
Q5. How do I stop cichlids from killing other fish?
Add more hiding spots, rearrange décor to break territories, and feed multiple times daily. If aggression persists, consider separating dominant individuals.
Q6. What’s the minimum tank size for mixed cichlid tanks?
For small species, a 55-gallon tank works. Large South American cichlids like Oscars require 100 gallons or more for safe coexistence.
Q7. Do cichlids need to be kept alone to thrive?
No—cichlids are social and territorial but not solitary. With proper planning, they can thrive in diverse, well-managed communities.
Q8. Can cichlids live with plants?
Some can. South American cichlids tolerate plants like Amazon Swords and Anubias, while African cichlids may uproot them. Use hardy species or artificial plants if necessary.
Q9. Do cichlids recognize their tank mates or owners?
Yes! Cichlids are remarkably intelligent. They recognize their owners, remember feeding routines, and establish hierarchies with familiar fish.
Final Thought
Building a community tank around cichlids takes a mix of art and science. Once you find the right companions and maintain stable water conditions, your aquarium transforms into a dynamic, colorful world full of personality and energy.
For deeper reading and species profiles, you can check Fishkeeping World — a trusted resource for aquarists worldwide.
