Can Betta Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) Live Together?
Betta Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements. 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 Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)?
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 Smaragdina is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is moderately assertive (6/10). This modest difference means Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) may occasionally assert dominance over Betta Smaragdina.
Betta Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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: Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.
Worth noting: Betta Smaragdina is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
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.
The pH requirements of Betta Smaragdina (5.5–7.5) and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) (7.8–8.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
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Tank Setup
To house Betta Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 200 litres with a minimum length of 120 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: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, 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 Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara).
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Betta Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Betta Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) need?
A minimum of 200 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 Betta Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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 Betta Smaragdina or Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) aggressive?
Betta Smaragdina is moderately assertive (5/10) and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is moderately assertive (6/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Betta Smaragdina and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Betta Smaragdina prefers 5.5–7.5, while Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) needs 7.8–8.6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Betta Smaragdina's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Betta Smaragdina 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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