Can Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Not Recommended

Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid 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

Antennae Stingray

Plesiotrygon iwamae

Azureus Cichlid

Copadichromis azureus

🐠Family Group
Antennae Stingray
Oddballs
Azureus Cichlid
Cichlids - African
Temperament
Antennae Stingray
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Azureus Cichlid
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
24–28°C
Azureus Cichlid
23–28°C
pH Range
✗ No overlap
Antennae Stingray
6–7
Azureus Cichlid
7.8–8.6
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
1–10
Azureus Cichlid
10–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
Freshwater Only
Azureus Cichlid
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Antennae Stingray
Moderate
Azureus Cichlid
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 2500 L
Antennae Stingray
2500 L
Azureus Cichlid
200 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Antennae Stingray
Bottom
Azureus Cichlid
MiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Antennae Stingray
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Azureus Cichlid
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Antennae Stingray
Azureus Cichlid
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid are moderately assertive species with an aggression score of 5/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

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

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.

The pH requirements of Antennae Stingray (6–7) and Azureus Cichlid (7.8–8.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid together, plan for an aquarium of at least 2500 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

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). 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.

Why This Pairing Usually Fails in Practice

Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid live together?

No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.

What size tank do Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid need?

A minimum of 2500 litres (tank length at least 240 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 Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid 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 Antennae Stingray or Azureus Cichlid aggressive?

Antennae Stingray is moderately assertive (5/10) and Azureus Cichlid is moderately assertive (5/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Antennae Stingray and Azureus Cichlid need?

Their pH requirements do not overlap. Antennae Stingray prefers 6–7, while Azureus Cichlid needs 7.8–8.6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 4, 2026
Last updated
May 4, 2026
Issues or corrections?
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