Can Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) Live Together?

Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) may occasionally assert dominance over Rachov's Killifish (Annual).

Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) 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: Rachov's Killifish (Annual) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) (7.8–8.6) and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) (6–7.5) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Rachov's Killifish (Annual) 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: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Soil / Nutrient Rich, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) requires Sand (Sifters), while Rachov's Killifish (Annual) requires Soil / Nutrient Rich. These substrate types may be difficult to provide simultaneously. Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) requires Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), while Rachov's Killifish (Annual) requires Soil / Nutrient Rich. These substrate types may be difficult to provide simultaneously. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

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