Can African Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) Live Together?
African Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) are not recommended as tank mates due to incompatible water types. 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 Lungfish is a highly aggressive species (10/10), while Scat (Brackish) is generally mild-mannered (4/10). This notable difference means African Lungfish may occasionally assert dominance over Scat (Brackish).
Large aggression gap (6 points) between African Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.
African Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) and Middle (Open Water) 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.
Water Parameters
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.
Crucially, these species require different water types — one needs freshwater while the other requires brackish conditions. This is a hard barrier to keeping them together. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.
Tank Setup
To house African Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) 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.
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.
African Lungfish prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Scat (Brackish) needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.
Find the right tank equipment
Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can African Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) live together?▾
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as different water type needs — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do African Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) need?▾
A minimum of 816 litres (tank length at least 180 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 Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) together?▾
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are African Lungfish or Scat (Brackish) aggressive?▾
African Lungfish is highly aggressive (10/10) and Scat (Brackish) is generally mild-mannered (4/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.
What pH do African Lungfish and Scat (Brackish) need?▾
Both species overlap in the 7.5–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
Will Scat (Brackish) nip African Lungfish's fins?▾
Scat (Brackish) is a known fin nipper. If African Lungfish has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Scat (Brackish) in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.
How do I manage African Lungfish's territorial behaviour?▾
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives African Lungfish 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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