Can African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) Live Together?
African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Behaviour & Temperament
African Jewel Cichlid is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). This modest difference means Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over African Jewel Cichlid.
Both African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) are highly aggressive, increasing the risk of violent confrontations.
African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) 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.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks. Two aggressive species housed together increases risk of fighting.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of African Jewel Cichlid (6.5–7.5) and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) (7.6–8.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.
Tank Setup
To house African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 240 litres with a minimum length of 120 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.
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: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Established Algae (Otocinclus). 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.
Find the right tank equipment
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) live together?▾
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) need?▾
A minimum of 240 litres (tank length at least 120 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 African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) together?▾
Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are African Jewel Cichlid or Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) aggressive?▾
African Jewel Cichlid is semi-aggressive (8/10) and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do African Jewel Cichlid and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) need?▾
Their pH requirements do not overlap. African Jewel Cichlid prefers 6.5–7.5, while Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) needs 7.6–8.6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage African Jewel Cichlid's territorial behaviour?▾
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives African Jewel Cichlid space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.
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