Can Clown Killifish and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) Live Together?

Clown Killifish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) is highly aggressive (9/10). This notable difference means Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over Clown Killifish.

Large aggression gap (7 points) between Clown Killifish and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Clown Killifish prefers the Top (Surface) zone, whereas Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) occupies the Bottom (Substrate) and Middle (Open Water) zones. 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: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

Worth noting: Clown Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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 Clown Killifish (5–7) and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) (7.6–8.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

Hardness requirements are incompatible: Clown Killifish needs 1–8 dGH while Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) requires 10–25 dGH. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Clown Killifish and Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) 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 - Floating, Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Sand (Sifters), Established Algae (Otocinclus). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Clown Killifish's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

Clown Killifish prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.