Can Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid Live Together?
Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements and 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 Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid?
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.
Behaviour & Temperament
Both Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid are moderately assertive species with an aggression score of 6/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.
In terms of spatial distribution, Apistogramma Black-Chin prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Butterfly Goodeid 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.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.
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.
The pH requirements of Apistogramma Black-Chin (4.5–6.5) and Butterfly Goodeid (7–8.5) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
Hardness requirements are incompatible: Apistogramma Black-Chin needs 0–5 dGH while Butterfly Goodeid requires 10–25 dGH.
Tank Setup
To house Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 80 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), Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - lighly covered. 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.
Why This Pairing Usually Fails in Practice
Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid 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.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid.
30 Gallon Breeder
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
Show 12 more tank sizes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid need?
A minimum of 110 litres (tank length at least 80 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 Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid 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 Black-Chin or Butterfly Goodeid aggressive?
Apistogramma Black-Chin is moderately assertive (6/10) and Butterfly Goodeid is moderately assertive (6/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Apistogramma Black-Chin and Butterfly Goodeid need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Apistogramma Black-Chin prefers 4.5–6.5, while Butterfly Goodeid needs 7–8.5. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
Will Butterfly Goodeid nip Apistogramma Black-Chin's fins?
Butterfly Goodeid is a known fin nipper. If Apistogramma Black-Chin has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Butterfly Goodeid in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.
How do I manage Apistogramma Black-Chin's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Apistogramma Black-Chin 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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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 3, 2026
- Last updated
- May 3, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
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