Can Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) Live Together?
Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) 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 Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna)?
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
Asian Arowana is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). This modest difference means Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over Asian Arowana.
Both Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) are highly aggressive, increasing the risk of violent confrontations.
In terms of spatial distribution, Asian Arowana prefers the Top (Surface) zone, whereas Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) occupies the Middle (Open Water) and Bottom (Substrate) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.
Worth noting: Asian Arowana is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 26°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 27.0°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of Asian Arowana (6–7.5) and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) (7.6–8.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
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Tank Setup
To house Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1000 litres with a minimum length of 240 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: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters), Established Algae (Otocinclus). 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) need?
A minimum of 1000 litres (tank length at least 240 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 Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) together?
Keep the aquarium between 26°C and 28°C. A target of around 27.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Asian Arowana or Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) aggressive?
Asian Arowana is semi-aggressive (8/10) and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Asian Arowana and Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Asian Arowana prefers 6–7.5, while Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) needs 7.6–8.6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Asian Arowana's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Asian Arowana 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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