Can Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict Cichlid Live Together?
Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict Cichlid are not recommended as tank mates due to incompatible hardness ranges. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict 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.
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Behaviour & Temperament
Apistogramma atahualpa is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Convict Cichlid is semi-aggressive (8/10). This notable difference means Convict Cichlid may occasionally assert dominance over Apistogramma atahualpa.
Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict 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.
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 6.5 and 6.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.
Hardness requirements are incompatible: Apistogramma atahualpa needs 0–5 dGH while Convict Cichlid requires 6–20 dGH.
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Tank Setup
To house Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict Cichlid together, plan for an aquarium of at least 85 litres with a minimum length of 75 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), 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: Convict Cichlid is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Apistogramma atahualpa'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.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict Cichlid.
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict Cichlid live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict Cichlid need?
A minimum of 85 litres (tank length at least 75 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 Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict 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 Apistogramma atahualpa or Convict Cichlid aggressive?
Apistogramma atahualpa is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Convict Cichlid is semi-aggressive (8/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.
What pH do Apistogramma atahualpa and Convict Cichlid need?
Both species overlap in the 6.5–6.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
Will Convict Cichlid nip Apistogramma atahualpa's fins?
Convict Cichlid is a known fin nipper. If Apistogramma atahualpa has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Convict Cichlid in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.
How do I manage Apistogramma atahualpa's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Apistogramma atahualpa 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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