Can Beckford's Pencilfish and Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) Live Together?

Beckford's Pencilfish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is semi-aggressive (8/10). This notable difference means Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) may occasionally assert dominance over Beckford's Pencilfish.

Large aggression gap (6 points) between Beckford's Pencilfish and Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

Beckford's Pencilfish and Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) 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: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Aggressive eaters may outcompete shy fish for food, leading to malnutrition.

Worth noting: Beckford's Pencilfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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.

The pH requirements of Beckford's Pencilfish (5–7.5) and Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) (8–9) 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.

To house Beckford's Pencilfish and Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 336 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: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Sand (Sifters), Established Algae (Otocinclus), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Beckford's Pencilfish's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is an aggressive eater that may prevent Beckford's Pencilfish from getting enough food.

Because Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Beckford's Pencilfish receives an adequate share.