Can Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid and Moonlight Gourami Live Together?

Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Moonlight Gourami is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid may occasionally assert dominance over Moonlight Gourami.

In terms of spatial distribution, Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Moonlight Gourami occupies the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Moonlight Gourami 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 Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid and Moonlight Gourami to establish separate territories. Add plenty of line-of-sight breaks using driftwood, rocks, and dense planting to reduce territorial confrontations.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 25°C and 29°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 27.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid and Moonlight Gourami together, plan for an aquarium of at least 150 litres with a minimum length of 90 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: Sand (Sifters), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Moonlight Gourami 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.