Can Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) Live Together?
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) 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
Behaviour & Temperament
Both Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) 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 Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) are highly aggressive, increasing the risk of violent confrontations.
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) 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: Two aggressive species housed together increases risk of fighting.
Worth noting: Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
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 Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) (5.5–7.5) 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. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.
Tank Setup
To house Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 240 litres with a minimum length of 120 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.
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), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). 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 Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) 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 Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) need?▾
A minimum of 240 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 Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) 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 Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) aggressive?▾
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10) and Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) is highly aggressive (9/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) need?▾
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) prefers 7.6–8.6, while Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) needs 5.5–7.5. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
Will Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) nip Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna)'s fins?▾
Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) is a known fin nipper. If Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Bucktooth Tetra (Exodon) in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.
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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