Can Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid and Flowerhorn Cichlid Live Together?

Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Flowerhorn Cichlid is highly aggressive (10/10). This notable difference means Flowerhorn Cichlid may occasionally assert dominance over Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid.

Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid and Flowerhorn Cichlid 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. Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 26°C and 29°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 27.5°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid (4.5–7) and Flowerhorn Cichlid (7.4–8) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

Hardness requirements are incompatible: Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid needs 1–8 dGH while Flowerhorn Cichlid requires 9–20 dGH. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid and Flowerhorn Cichlid together, plan for an aquarium of at least 336 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), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered, Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Flowerhorn Cichlid is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid'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.