Can Cardinal Tetra and Nyererei Victorian Cichlid Live Together?

Cardinal Tetra is a peaceful species (1/10), while Nyererei Victorian Cichlid is semi-aggressive (7/10). This notable difference means Nyererei Victorian Cichlid may occasionally assert dominance over Cardinal Tetra.

Large aggression gap (6 points) between Cardinal Tetra and Nyererei Victorian Cichlid increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

Cardinal Tetra and Nyererei Victorian Cichlid 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: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Cardinal Tetra (4–7) and Nyererei Victorian Cichlid (7.4–8.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 8–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Cardinal Tetra and Nyererei Victorian Cichlid together, plan for an aquarium of at least 252 litres with a minimum length of 100 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 - Densely covered, Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Nyererei Victorian Cichlid is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Cardinal Tetra'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.

Cardinal Tetra and Nyererei Victorian Cichlid are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Nyererei Victorian Cichlid is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Cardinal Tetra.