Can Apistogramma uaupesi and Jack Dempsey Live Together?
Apistogramma uaupesi and Jack Dempsey 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 uaupesi and Jack Dempsey?
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 uaupesi is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Jack Dempsey is semi-aggressive (8/10). This modest difference means Jack Dempsey may occasionally assert dominance over Apistogramma uaupesi.
Apistogramma uaupesi and Jack Dempsey 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.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. 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 29°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.5°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of Apistogramma uaupesi (4–6) and Jack Dempsey (6.5–8) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–5 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
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Tank Setup
To house Apistogramma uaupesi and Jack Dempsey 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, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered, Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Jack Dempsey is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Apistogramma uaupesi'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 uaupesi and Jack Dempsey.
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Apistogramma uaupesi and Jack Dempsey live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Apistogramma uaupesi and Jack Dempsey need?
A minimum of 200 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 uaupesi and Jack Dempsey together?
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 29°C. A target of around 26.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Apistogramma uaupesi or Jack Dempsey aggressive?
Apistogramma uaupesi is moderately assertive (5/10) and Jack Dempsey is semi-aggressive (8/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Apistogramma uaupesi and Jack Dempsey need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Apistogramma uaupesi prefers 4–6, while Jack Dempsey needs 6.5–8. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Apistogramma uaupesi's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Apistogramma uaupesi 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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