Can Uaru and White Cheeked Goby Live Together?
Uaru and White Cheeked Goby are not recommended as tank mates due to no temperature overlap. 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 Uaru and White Cheeked Goby?
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.
Behaviour & Temperament
Both Uaru and White Cheeked Goby are generally mild-mannered species with an aggression score of 4/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.
Uaru and White Cheeked Goby 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: Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.
Water Parameters
There is no temperature overlap between Uaru (27–30°C) and White Cheeked Goby (15–24°C). This fundamental mismatch makes long-term cohabitation impractical.
Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
Tank Setup
To house Uaru and White Cheeked Goby together, plan for an aquarium of at least 400 litres with a minimum length of 150 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: Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Uaru prefers Low (Still Water) flow while White Cheeked Goby needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.
Why This Pairing Usually Fails in Practice
Uaru and White Cheeked Goby are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Uaru and White Cheeked Goby.
Diet & Feeding
Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Uaru is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like White Cheeked Goby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Uaru and White Cheeked Goby live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as non-overlapping temperature ranges — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Uaru and White Cheeked Goby need?
A minimum of 400 litres (tank length at least 150 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 Uaru and White Cheeked Goby together?
Unfortunately, there is no temperature range that satisfies both species. Uaru requires 27–30°C, while White Cheeked Goby needs 15–24°C.
Are Uaru or White Cheeked Goby aggressive?
Uaru is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and White Cheeked Goby is generally mild-mannered (4/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Uaru and White Cheeked Goby need?
Both species overlap in the 6.5–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
How do I manage White Cheeked Goby's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives White Cheeked Goby 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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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 11, 2026
- Last updated
- May 11, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
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