Can Arapaima and Frontosa Live Together?
Arapaima and Frontosa 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 Arapaima and Frontosa?
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.
Behaviour & Temperament
Arapaima is a semi-aggressive species (7/10), while Frontosa is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Arapaima may occasionally assert dominance over Frontosa.
Arapaima and Frontosa both frequent the 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: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.
Worth noting: Arapaima 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 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of Arapaima (6–7.5) and Frontosa (8–9) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 12–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
Tank Setup
To house Arapaima and Frontosa together, plan for an aquarium of at least 15000 litres with a minimum length of 600 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), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). 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 Usually Fails in Practice
Arapaima and Frontosa are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Arapaima and Frontosa live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Arapaima and Frontosa need?
A minimum of 15000 litres (tank length at least 600 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 Arapaima and Frontosa together?
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 27°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Arapaima or Frontosa aggressive?
Arapaima is semi-aggressive (7/10) and Frontosa is moderately assertive (5/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Arapaima and Frontosa need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Arapaima prefers 6–7.5, while Frontosa needs 8–9. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Frontosa's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Frontosa 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.
Shared setup supplies
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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 1, 2026
- Last updated
- May 1, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
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