Can Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) and West African Bichir Live Together?

Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while West African Bichir is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means West African Bichir may occasionally assert dominance over Cigar Shark (Mad Barb).

In terms of spatial distribution, Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) prefers the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) zones, whereas West African Bichir occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

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: West African Bichir is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

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.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) and West African Bichir together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1000 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) prefers High (River/Stream) flow while West African Bichir needs Low (Still Water) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) and West African Bichir need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) is an aggressive eater that may prevent West African Bichir from getting enough food.

Because Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure West African Bichir receives an adequate share.