Can Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid Live Together?
Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements and incompatible hardness ranges. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid?
Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.
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Behaviour & Temperament
Betta Macrostoma is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Convict Cichlid is semi-aggressive (8/10). This modest difference means Convict Cichlid may occasionally assert dominance over Betta Macrostoma.
Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid 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: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.
Worth noting: Betta Macrostoma is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.5°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of Betta Macrostoma (4–6) and Convict Cichlid (6.5–8) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
Hardness requirements are incompatible: Betta Macrostoma needs 0–5 dGH while Convict Cichlid requires 6–20 dGH.
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Tank Setup
To house Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid together, plan for an aquarium of at least 96 litres with a minimum length of 75 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: Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Floating, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid.
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid need?
A minimum of 96 litres (tank length at least 75 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 Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid together?
Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 25°C. A target of around 23.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Betta Macrostoma or Convict Cichlid aggressive?
Betta Macrostoma is moderately assertive (6/10) and Convict Cichlid is semi-aggressive (8/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Betta Macrostoma and Convict Cichlid need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Betta Macrostoma prefers 4–6, while Convict Cichlid needs 6.5–8. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
Will Convict Cichlid nip Betta Macrostoma's fins?
Convict Cichlid is a known fin nipper. If Betta Macrostoma has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Convict Cichlid in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.
How do I manage Betta Macrostoma's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Betta Macrostoma 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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