Can Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) and Empire Gudgeon Live Together?

Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) is a highly aggressive species (9/10), while Empire Gudgeon is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This notable difference means Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) may occasionally assert dominance over Empire Gudgeon.

Large aggression gap (6 points) between Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) and Empire Gudgeon increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.

Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) and Empire Gudgeon both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) and 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.

Worth noting: Empire Gudgeon is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: Provide a significantly larger tank (at least 50% more volume than the minimum) to allow both Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) and Empire Gudgeon to establish separate territories. Add plenty of line-of-sight breaks using driftwood, rocks, and dense planting to reduce territorial confrontations. 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 7.6 and 8.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna) and Empire Gudgeon 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.

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: Sand (Sifters), Established Algae (Otocinclus), Plants - Densely covered, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). 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 Empire Gudgeon's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

Both species do well with high (river/stream) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.