Can Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Black Phantom Tetra Live Together?
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Black Phantom Tetra 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 Black Phantom Tetra?
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
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is a highly aggressive species (9/10), while Black Phantom Tetra is peaceful (2/10). This notable difference means Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over Black Phantom Tetra.
Large aggression gap (7 points) between Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Black Phantom Tetra increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Black Phantom Tetra 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: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) (7.6–8.6) and Black Phantom Tetra (5–7.5) 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 Black Phantom Tetra together, plan for an aquarium of at least 254 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), Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Black Phantom Tetra's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.
Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Black Phantom Tetra.
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
180 Gallon Standard
350 Liter (120cm Deep)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Black Phantom Tetra 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 Black Phantom Tetra need?
A minimum of 254 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 Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Black Phantom Tetra together?
Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) or Black Phantom Tetra aggressive?
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10) and Black Phantom Tetra is peaceful (2/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.
What pH do Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Black Phantom Tetra need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) prefers 7.6–8.6, while Black Phantom Tetra needs 5–7.5. 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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