Can Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 6, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 110 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Apistogramma Mamoré

Apistogramma erythrura

Freshwater Sole

Brachirus selheimi

🐠Family Group
Apistogramma Mamoré
Cichlids - South American
Freshwater Sole
Oddballs
Temperament
Apistogramma Mamoré
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Freshwater Sole
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Apistogramma Mamoré
24–28°C
Freshwater Sole
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Apistogramma Mamoré
5–7
Freshwater Sole
6.5–7.8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Apistogramma Mamoré
1–8
Freshwater Sole
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Apistogramma Mamoré
Freshwater Only
Freshwater Sole
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Apistogramma Mamoré
Low
Freshwater Sole
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 110 L
Apistogramma Mamoré
60 L
Freshwater Sole
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Apistogramma Mamoré
BottomMiddle
Freshwater Sole
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Apistogramma Mamoré
Territorial (Defends specific area)Shrimp EaterDigger (Disturbs Substrate)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Freshwater Sole
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorDigger (Disturbs Substrate)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Nocturnal
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole?

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.

Apistogramma Mamoré
Freshwater Sole
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole are generally mild-mannered species with an aggression score of 4/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole 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.

Worth noting: Freshwater Sole is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.

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.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 90 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), Plants - Densely 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 Works in Practice

Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole.

Show 10 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole live together?

Yes. Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole need?

A minimum of 110 litres (tank length at least 90 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 Mamoré and Freshwater Sole 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 Mamoré or Freshwater Sole aggressive?

Apistogramma Mamoré is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Freshwater Sole is generally mild-mannered (4/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Apistogramma Mamoré and Freshwater Sole need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

How do I manage Apistogramma Mamoré's territorial behaviour?

Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Apistogramma Mamoré 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.

Does Freshwater Sole being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Freshwater Sole is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Freshwater Sole during evening hours.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 6, 2026
Last updated
May 6, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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