African Cichlid Compatibility Checker
Compare two Malawi cichlid species and review aggression, adult size, feeding needs and your tank's basic conditions before mixing fish.
Tell us about your fish
Start with two species and a few details about your aquarium.
Your compatibility review
Based on the species and conditions you entered.
Why this result?
Recommended next steps
This is a screening tool, not a guarantee of compatibility or a final stocking recommendation. Watch fish closely and separate injured or severely harassed fish as appropriate.
AFRICAN CICHLID TANKMATE GUIDE
Can These African Cichlids Live Together?
Quick answer: Some African cichlids can share an aquarium, but compatibility depends on more than their species names. You need to consider aggression, adult fish size, feeding habits, swimming space and territory. Use this free African Cichlid Compatibility Checker to review common risks before adding new tankmates.
How does the African Cichlid Compatibility Checker work?
Choose two fish from the supported Lake Malawi species list. Then enter your tank volume, aquarium length, planned fish count and number of known adult males. You can also describe your rockwork and visual barriers. The checker compares general species characteristics with the conditions you provide. It explains risks and next steps but cannot predict individual behavior. The tool does not evaluate every fish already living in your aquarium.
Can peacock cichlids live with mbuna or Malawi haps?
Peacock cichlids belong to the genus Aulonocara. Many are less aggressive than strongly territorial mbuna, so combining the two groups needs careful thought. Diet is another concern because peacocks often hunt small invertebrates while many mbuna graze algae and related foods. Some moderately tempered Malawi haps may be considered as tankmates, but size differences and individual behavior still matter. Large predatory haps can pose particular risks to smaller fish. There is no single answer that makes every peacock and hap combination safe.
Why do aquarium length and adult fish size affect compatibility?
Lake Malawi cichlids often defend space and may chase fish that enter their territory. A longer tank offers more horizontal swimming room than a tall tank of equal volume. Secure rockwork and breaks in the line of sight can help some fish avoid constant confrontation. Compare the expected adult sizes rather than the size of juveniles at the pet store. Juveniles may become poor matches after growing or reaching breeding age.
How do male fish, breeding and feeding change tankmate behavior?
Adult males can become more territorial as they mature or compete for breeding opportunities. Even two fish from the same general group may challenge one another. Mixing closely related peacock species can also lead to hybrid offspring, which matters if you want to maintain distinct breeding lines. Watch feeding time as closely as chasing behavior. A fish that stays hidden or misses meals may struggle even when it has no obvious injuries. Compatibility includes feeding access and aggression.
What should you do after checking African cichlid compatibility?
Read the reasons behind the result instead of relying only on the summary label. Review the full stocking plan, water quality and tank layout before introducing new fish. After an introduction, monitor repeated chasing, torn fins, hiding, appetite and breathing. If a fish is being persistently attacked or injured, separation may be necessary. Keep observing because fish can behave differently from species descriptions.
FAQs
Can two male peacock cichlids live in the same tank?
Sometimes, but aggression depends on species, space, territory and the individual fish. Monitor adult males carefully, especially when breeding behavior begins.
Can peacock cichlids live with mbuna?
Mixing them can be difficult because many mbuna defend territories strongly and may have different dietary needs. An individual combination needs careful assessment.
Are yellow lab cichlids always safe with peacocks?
No. Yellow labs are often described as less aggressive than some mbuna, but they can still compete for food or space. Observe each fish and assess the entire tank.
Can Malawi haps live with peacock cichlids?
Some suitably sized and moderately tempered haps may be considered, but large or predatory species can create serious problems. Tank dimensions and adult size are important.
Can different peacock cichlid species breed together?
Hybrid breeding can occur between some Aulonocara species. Keep breeding groups separate if maintaining identifiable species lines is important to you.
Does this compatibility checker guarantee peaceful fish?
No. The checker evaluates selected general risk factors. It cannot predict every individual fish, and conditions can change as cichlids mature or establish territories.