Can African Dwarf Frog and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) Live Together?

African Dwarf Frog is a peaceful species (1/10), while Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). This notable difference means Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over African Dwarf Frog.

Large aggression gap (8 points) between African Dwarf Frog and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

African Dwarf Frog and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) both frequent the 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.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

Worth noting: African Dwarf Frog is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, African Dwarf Frog is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: Provide a significantly larger tank (at least 50% more volume than the minimum) to allow both African Dwarf Frog and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) to establish separate territories. Add plenty of line-of-sight breaks using driftwood, rocks, and dense planting to reduce territorial confrontations. A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.6 and 7.8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house African Dwarf Frog and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 241 litres with a minimum length of 120 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: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters), Plants - Densely covered, Established Algae (Otocinclus). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with African Dwarf Frog's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.