Can Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Red Tailed Black Shark Live Together?
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Red Tailed Black Shark are not recommended as tank mates due to 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
Behaviour & Temperament
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Red Tailed Black Shark is semi-aggressive (7/10). This modest difference means Red Tailed Black Shark may occasionally assert dominance over Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara).
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Red Tailed Black Shark 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.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.
Worth noting: Red Tailed Black Shark is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
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 Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) (7.8–8.6) and Red Tailed Black Shark (6.5–7.5) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.
Tank Setup
To house Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Red Tailed Black Shark together, plan for an aquarium of at least 250 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), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered. 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Red Tailed Black Shark live together?▾
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Red Tailed Black Shark need?▾
A minimum of 250 litres (tank length at least 120 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 Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Red Tailed Black Shark 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 Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) or Red Tailed Black Shark aggressive?▾
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is moderately assertive (6/10) and Red Tailed Black Shark is semi-aggressive (7/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Red Tailed Black Shark need?▾
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) prefers 7.8–8.6, while Red Tailed Black Shark needs 6.5–7.5. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)'s territorial behaviour?▾
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) 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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