Can Arrowhead Puffer and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) Live Together?

Arrowhead Puffer is a highly aggressive species (10/10), while Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Arrowhead Puffer may occasionally assert dominance over Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara).

Arrowhead Puffer and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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.

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 Arrowhead Puffer (6.5–7.5) and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) (7.8–8.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Arrowhead Puffer and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.