Can Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma Live Together?
Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma are not recommended as tank mates due to incompatible water types and 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
Can your tank handle Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma?
Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.
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Behaviour & Temperament
Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Two-spot Apistogramma is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) may occasionally assert dominance over Two-spot Apistogramma.
Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma both frequent the 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.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.
Water Parameters
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.
The pH requirements of Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) (7.5–8.5) and Two-spot Apistogramma (5–7) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
Crucially, these species require different water types — one needs freshwater while the other requires brackish conditions. This is a hard barrier to keeping them together.
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Tank Setup
To house Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma together, plan for an aquarium of at least 62 litres with a minimum length of 60 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: Sand (Sifters), Shells (Breeding/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma.
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as different water type needs — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma need?
A minimum of 62 litres (tank length at least 60 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 Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma together?
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) or Two-spot Apistogramma aggressive?
Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) is semi-aggressive (8/10) and Two-spot Apistogramma is moderately assertive (5/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) and Two-spot Apistogramma need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) prefers 7.5–8.5, while Two-spot Apistogramma needs 5–7. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
Will Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) nip Two-spot Apistogramma's fins?
Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) is a known fin nipper. If Two-spot Apistogramma has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.
How do I manage Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish)'s territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Figure 8 Puffer (Brackish) 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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