Can Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Reedfish (Ropefish) Live Together?
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Reedfish (Ropefish) 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 Reedfish (Ropefish) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) may occasionally assert dominance over Reedfish (Ropefish).
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Reedfish (Ropefish) 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: Reedfish (Ropefish) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Reedfish (Ropefish) 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 Reedfish (Ropefish) (6–7.5) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
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.
Tank Setup
To house Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Reedfish (Ropefish) 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), 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.
Find the right tank equipment
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Reedfish (Ropefish) 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 Reedfish (Ropefish) need?▾
A minimum of 240 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 Reedfish (Ropefish) 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 Reedfish (Ropefish) aggressive?▾
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is moderately assertive (6/10) and Reedfish (Ropefish) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) and Reedfish (Ropefish) need?▾
Their pH requirements do not overlap. Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) prefers 7.8–8.6, while Reedfish (Ropefish) needs 6–7.5. 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.
Does Reedfish (Ropefish) being nocturnal affect compatibility?▾
Reedfish (Ropefish) is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Reedfish (Ropefish) during evening hours.
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