Can Barlow's Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma Maulbrüter) and Silver Arowana Live Together?

Barlow's Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma Maulbrüter) is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Silver Arowana is moderately assertive (6/10). This modest difference means Silver Arowana may occasionally assert dominance over Barlow's Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma Maulbrüter).

In terms of spatial distribution, Barlow's Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma Maulbrüter) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Silver Arowana 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.

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: Silver Arowana 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 Barlow's Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma Maulbrüter) and Silver Arowana 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 24°C and 29°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 6.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 1–5 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Barlow's Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma Maulbrüter) and Silver Arowana together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1000 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

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), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, 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.

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Barlow's Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma Maulbrüter) and Silver Arowana need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.