Can African Lungfish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) Live Together?

African Lungfish is a highly aggressive species (10/10), while Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This notable difference means African Lungfish may occasionally assert dominance over Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian).

Large aggression gap (7 points) between African Lungfish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

African Lungfish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) 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: African Lungfish 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 Lungfish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) 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 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.5 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 12–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house African Lungfish and Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 816 litres with a minimum length of 180 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

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: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered, Established Algae (Otocinclus). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: African Lungfish is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)'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.