Can Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil Cichlid Live Together?
Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil 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 baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil 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 baenschi (Inca 50) is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Red Devil Cichlid is highly aggressive (10/10). This notable difference means Red Devil Cichlid may occasionally assert dominance over Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50).
Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil 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. Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. 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 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°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 baenschi (Inca 50) needs 1–5 dGH while Red Devil Cichlid requires 6–20 dGH.
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Tank Setup
To house Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil Cichlid together, plan for an aquarium of at least 280 litres with a minimum length of 120 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), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
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 baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil Cichlid.
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
180 Gallon Standard
350 Liter (120cm Deep)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil Cichlid live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil Cichlid need?
A minimum of 280 litres (tank length at least 120 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 baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil Cichlid together?
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 26°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) or Red Devil Cichlid aggressive?
Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) is moderately assertive (5/10) and Red Devil Cichlid is highly aggressive (10/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.
What pH do Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) and Red Devil 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.
How do I manage Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50)'s territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50) 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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