Can Apistogramma macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) Live Together?
Apistogramma macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements. 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 macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna)?
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.
Shared setup supplies
We may earn from qualifying purchases
Behaviour & Temperament
Apistogramma macmasteri is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). This modest difference means Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over Apistogramma macmasteri.
Apistogramma macmasteri and Auratus 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.
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.
The pH requirements of Apistogramma macmasteri (5.5–7.5) and Auratus 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.
Water care products
We may earn from qualifying purchases
Tank Setup
To house Apistogramma macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 271 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), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered, Established Algae (Otocinclus). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Apistogramma macmasteri'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 macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna).
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
180 Gallon Standard
350 Liter (120cm Deep)
Show 1 more tank size
Feeding products to consider
We may earn from qualifying purchases
.webp?2026-04-25T14%3A35%3A38.022Z)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Apistogramma macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Apistogramma macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) need?
A minimum of 271 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 macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) 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 macmasteri or Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) aggressive?
Apistogramma macmasteri is moderately assertive (6/10) and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Apistogramma macmasteri and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Apistogramma macmasteri prefers 5.5–7.5, while Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) needs 7.6–8.6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Apistogramma macmasteri's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Apistogramma macmasteri 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.
Related Comparisons
Apistogramma macmasteri & Aequidens diadema (Diadem Cichlid)
·
Apistogramma macmasteri & Aequidens sp. Atabapo
·
Apistogramma macmasteri & Apistogramma Broad-banded
·
Apistogramma macmasteri & Apistogramma Mamoré
·
Apistogramma macmasteri & Apistogramma Mouthbrooder (Maulbrüter)
·
Apistogramma macmasteri & Apistogramma Orange-tail
·
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) & Afra Cichlid
·
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) & African Jewel Cichlid
·
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) & Aurora Yellow Mbuna
·
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) & Black Diamond Cichlid
·
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) & Buccochromis rhoadesii
·
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) & Bumblebee Cichlid
·