Can Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Butterfly Pleco (L168) Live Together?

Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is a highly aggressive species (9/10), while Butterfly Pleco (L168) is peaceful (2/10). This notable difference means Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over Butterfly Pleco (L168).

Large aggression gap (7 points) between Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Butterfly Pleco (L168) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Butterfly Pleco (L168) 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.

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. Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.

Worth noting: Butterfly Pleco (L168) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 25°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.5°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) (7.6–8.6) and Butterfly Pleco (L168) (5.5–7) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

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

To house Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Butterfly Pleco (L168) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 283 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), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), 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.

Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Butterfly Pleco (L168) are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.