Can Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) Live Together?

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

Large aggression gap (7 points) between Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) prefers the Middle (Open Water) and Bottom (Substrate) zones, whereas Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) 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.

Worth noting: Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: Provide a significantly larger tank (at least 50% more volume than the minimum) to allow both Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) to establish separate territories. Add plenty of line-of-sight breaks using driftwood, rocks, and dense planting to reduce territorial confrontations. A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

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.

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. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna) and Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) 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.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating. 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 Japanese Ricefish (Medaka)'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.