Can Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) Live Together?
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) are not recommended as tank mates due to incompatible water types. 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
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is a highly aggressive species (9/10), while Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) is semi-aggressive (8/10). This modest difference means Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish).
Both Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) are highly aggressive, increasing the risk of violent confrontations.
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and 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: Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks. Two aggressive species housed together increases risk of fighting.
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.
Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.6 and 8.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–25 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
Crucially, these species require different water types — one needs freshwater while the other requires brackish conditions. This is a hard barrier to keeping them together. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.
Tank Setup
To house Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) 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), Shells (Breeding/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 Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) live together?▾
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as different water type needs — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) 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 Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) 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 Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) aggressive?▾
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10) and Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) is semi-aggressive (8/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) need?▾
Both species overlap in the 7.6–8.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
Will Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) nip Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna)'s fins?▾
Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) is a known fin nipper. If Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) 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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