Can Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) Live Together?

Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) 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 Japanese Ricefish (Medaka).

In terms of spatial distribution, Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) prefers the Top (Surface) zone, whereas Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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.

Worth noting: Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) 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 Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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 7.8 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 10–25 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Japanese Ricefish (Medaka) 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.

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: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, 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.