Can Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) Live Together?

Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). This notable difference means Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid).

Large aggression gap (6 points) between Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) and Middle (Open Water) 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.

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 borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) (5.5–7.5) and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) (7.6–8.6) 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.

To house Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 200 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, Plants - Densely covered, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Established Algae (Otocinclus). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid)'s requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.

Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) 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.