Can Cherry Barb and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) Live Together?
Cherry Barb 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
Behaviour & Temperament
Cherry Barb is a peaceful species (2/10), while Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) may occasionally assert dominance over Cherry Barb.
Cherry Barb and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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.
Water Parameters
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 Cherry Barb (6–7.5) 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 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.
Tank Setup
To house Cherry Barb and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 240 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, 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.
Find the right tank equipment
Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Barb 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 Cherry Barb and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) need?▾
A minimum of 240 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 Cherry Barb and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) together?▾
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 27°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Cherry Barb or Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) aggressive?▾
Cherry Barb is peaceful (2/10) and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is moderately assertive (6/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.
What pH do Cherry Barb and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) need?▾
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Cherry Barb prefers 6–7.5, while Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) needs 7.8–8.6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)'s territorial behaviour?▾
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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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