Can Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) Live Together?

Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while Twig Catfish (Farlowella) is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) may occasionally assert dominance over Twig Catfish (Farlowella).

Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) 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.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.2. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 3–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) 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, Plants - Densely covered, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Established Algae (Otocinclus). 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.

Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) and Twig Catfish (Farlowella) work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.