Can Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) Live Together?
Yes, Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 110 litres is recommended.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish)?
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.
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Behaviour & Temperament
Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) may occasionally assert dominance over Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish).
In terms of spatial distribution, Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) occupies the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.
Worth noting: Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
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 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 5–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
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Tank Setup
To house Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) 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.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish).
30 Gallon Breeder
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) live together?
Yes. Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.
What size tank do Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) 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 Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) 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 Marmor (Marbled Apisto) or Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) aggressive?
Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) and Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) need?
Both species overlap in the 6–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
How do I manage Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto)'s territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Apistogramma Marmor (Marbled Apisto) 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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