Can Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana Live Together?
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana 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 Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana?
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
Both Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana are highly aggressive species with an aggression score of 9/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.
Both Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana are highly aggressive, increasing the risk of violent confrontations.
In terms of spatial distribution, Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) prefers the Middle (Open Water) and Bottom (Substrate) zones, whereas Australian Pearl Arowana occupies the Top (Surface) zone. 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. Two aggressive species housed together increases risk of fighting.
Worth noting: Australian Pearl Arowana 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.
The pH requirements of Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) (7.6–8.6) and Australian Pearl Arowana (6–7.5) 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.
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Tank Setup
To house Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana together, plan for an aquarium of at least 800 litres with a minimum length of 200 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), Established Algae (Otocinclus), 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana need?
A minimum of 800 litres (tank length at least 200 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 Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana 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 Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) or Australian Pearl Arowana aggressive?
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10) and Australian Pearl Arowana is highly aggressive (9/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Australian Pearl Arowana need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) prefers 7.6–8.6, while Australian Pearl Arowana needs 6–7.5. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna)'s territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) 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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