15 Best African Cichlids Tank Mates

Learn about the best tank mates for African cichlids. In this article, I showcase 15 fish species that are compatible with African cichlids, presenting you their requirements, feeding habits, care level, lifespan, and temperament, so you can make an informed decision.

by Fabian

Updated: October 26, 2023 / 16 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

Jump directly to the list of the best African cichlid tank mates.

What Are the Key Considerations for Choosing Tank Mates?

When choosing tank mates for African Cichlids, there are several important factors to consider. Each of these factors contributes to a harmonious aquatic environment compatible with the cichlid’s own unique needs and behaviors.

You must consider their aggression levels, size compatibility, dietary needs, environmental requirements, habitat structure preferences, breeding behavior, activity level, coloration and patterns, origin and natural habitat, disease resistance, swimming levels, and growth rate.

Aggression Levels

When considering tank mates for your African Cichlids, one of the key factors to take into account is their aggression levels. African Cichlids are known for their aggressive and territorial behavior. Therefore, selecting tank mates that can tolerate their assertiveness is crucial.

Aim to balance the interaction in the aquarium by selecting species that can defend themselves, yet are not overly aggressive to increase overall tension.

Size Compatibility

In the world of African Cichlids, size does matter. Choosing tank mates that are of similar size to your Cichlids is critical for their safety and wellbeing. If a tank mate is significantly larger, they may bully smaller fish, potentially causing stress or even injury. Conversely, smaller fish may be perceived as food by larger Cichlids.

Also, consider that some Cichlids can grow quite quickly, so it’s important to account for potential size changes over time. Make sure to research the growing size of every species you intend to host in your tank to ensure size compatibility amongst all the fish.

Dietary Needs

When choosing tank mates for your African cichlids, it’s of utmost importance to consider the dietary needs of all the fish in your tank. Cichlids are omnivorous and have a varied diet including plants, insects, and small fish. Running a multi-species tank necessitates ensuring the food provided meets the nutritional needs of all the residents.

Some fish may require more protein or plant-based food, while others may have unique feeding habits or timings. Incompatibilities in dietary needs could lead to malnutrition or starvation for some of your aquatic pets.

Environmental Needs

When selecting tank mates for your African Cichlids, matching environmental needs, particularly water conditions, is of paramount importance. African Cichlids typically thrive in warm, alkaline water with a pH range between 7.5 and 8.5. Hence, any potential tank companion should tolerate, if not prefer, similar water chemistry.

Be cautious about temperature ranges, hardness, pH levels, and water cleanliness. Understanding and managing these factors will ensure a healthier, stress-free environment for all the inhabitants, and significantly enhance their ability to withstand diseases.

Habitat Structure

When it comes to selecting tank mates for your African cichlids, understanding the habitat structure is paramount. African cichlids have a natural instinct to dig in the substrate. This behavior can disturb or destroy the homes and hiding spaces of other fish living in the same tank.

Therefore, it’s essential to choose tank mates that can adapt to or tolerate such conduct. Opt for a tank layout that can accommodate this digging behavior, perhaps through hardy, durable plants and rock formations that create numerous spaces for hiding and territorial claims.

Breeding Behavior

Navigating cichlids’ breeding habits is crucial when choosing tank mates for your African Cichlids. These fish are known for their aggressive and territorial behavior, especially during breeding. They form nuclear families, fiercely protecting their offspring from perceived threats. This intensity often escalates during mating and post-spawning periods.

To ensure a harmonious coexistence in your aquarium, it’s vital to understand their breeding cycles, prepare separate breeding zones, and choose tank mates that can either withstand their behavior, or are peaceful and can keep away during these critical periods.

Activity Level

When selecting tank mates for your African Cichlids, you need to consider their activity levels. African Cichlids are active and lively, often darting around the tank. Choosing mates with similar energy and activity levels can prevent stress, and territorial disputes, and ensure the well-being of all the tank occupants.

Low-energy fish might find the Cichlids too overwhelming while overly active fish might stress the Cichlids.

Coloration and Patterns

Coloration and patterns are notable features within fish species that have a significant effect on their behavior, especially among African Cichlids. These characteristics can influence their interactions, including territorial disputes and mating behavior.

Brightly colored or uniquely patterned Cichlids often assert dominance, leading to potential conflicts. Hence, when considering tank mates for African Cichlids, you should choose fish that have subdued colors and simple patterns to minimize aggression and maintain a peaceful aquarium environment.

Origin and Natural Habitat

The origin and natural habitat of your cichlid tank mates are pivotal factors in ensuring harmony in your aquarium setup. Choosing tank mates that originate from similar environments as your African cichlids can save you a whole lot of stress. Benefits include similar water parameter requirements, temperature preferences, and habitat structures.

Additionally, fish from the same or similar habitats often have parallel social behaviors and compatible dietary needs. This can minimize conflict and stresses often brought about by inconsistent habits or conditions.

Disease Resistance

Keeping a tank full of African cichlids is a satisfying task, but disease can quickly wreak havoc among your fish community. Therefore, when choosing suitable tank mates, it’s essential that you consider disease resistance. Every fish has its specific susceptibility or resistance to certain diseases.

Selecting species that are known to have strong disease resistance is advisable. This trait not only keeps the fish healthy, but also prevents the possible spread of diseases to the cichlids in your tank. Furthermore, a disease-free aquarium environment is pivotal in promoting the overall growth and wellbeing of your aquatic pets.

Swimming Levels

Swimming levels refer to the typical depth in the tank where different kinds of fish prefer to swim and stay.

African Cichlids, for example, are known to occupy all levels of their aquatic environment. Diversifying the swimming levels of your fish means maintaining a balance, ensuring that all areas of your tank — top, middle and bottom — are inhabited.

Growth Rate

For successful compatibility with African Cichlid tank mates, it’s essential to consider the growth rate of potential tank mates. Different species can mature at differing speeds, impacting their size, behavior, and nutritional needs.

If one fish outgrows the others quickly, it might become dominant or even aggressive. On the other hand, slow-growers could be overshadowed or threatened. To create a harmonious environment, consider selecting tank mates that grow at a similar pace to your African Cichlids.

Best Tank Mates for African Cichlids

Below, I’ll share my personal experiences and research on the best African cichlid tank mates, ensuring your aquarium remains harmonious and your beloved fish can thrive together in a captivating underwater community. So keep reading and discover the ideal companions for your beautiful African cichlids!

1. Black Diamond Cichlid (Paratilapia polleni)

The Black Diamond Cichlid, also known as the Marakely or Polleni cichlid, is a beautiful, large Madagascar fish species with striking black and white patterns that can make a stunning addition to your African cichlid tank.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 55 gallons
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – accepts a variety of foods, including pellets, flakes, live and frozen options, with vegetable matter
• Max. Size: Up to 12 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Due to its size and territorial nature, the Black Diamond Cichlid requires a spacious tank and is best suited for an experienced hobbyist. It can coexist well with other large African cichlids if given enough room to establish territories.

2. African Butterfly Cichlid (Anomalochromis thomasi)

The African Butterfly Cichlid is a peaceful and smaller West African species that can make a fantastic tank mate for your African cichlids, thanks to its friendly nature and captivating appearance.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Care Level: Easy
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – enjoys flake foods, live and frozen foods, such as brine shrimp and daphnia, as well as vegetable matter
• Max. Size: Up to 3 inches
• Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive

A great choice for beginner aquarists, the African Butterfly Cichlid’s easy-going temperament and modest size make it a compatible companion with many other smaller or similarly peaceful African cichlids. Just be sure to provide hiding spots for them in your aquarium setup.

3. Synodontis Catfish

Synodontis catfish are remarkable bottom-dwellers that bring character to any African cichlid tank. They blend in well with their tank mates and even provide a natural form of clean-up, feeding on uneaten food and debris.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Care Level: Easy
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – consumes sinking pellets, flakes, live and frozen foods, with occasional vegetable matter
• Max. Size: Varies by species, ranging from 4 to 12 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful, but can be aggressive if not given sufficient space

With their unique inverted swimming style and intriguing patterns, Synodontis catfish make a delightful addition to any African cichlid setup. Ensure that you provide ample cave-like structures and hiding spots for these nocturnal fish to feel secure and thrive.

4. Leopard Bushfish

The Leopard Bushfish, also known as Spotted Climbing Perch, is a captivating and unique fish species that can coexist with African cichlids, making them an appealing option as a tank mate.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 40 gallons
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous – prefers live foods, such as insects, small fish, and shrimp, but can be trained to accept frozen alternatives
• Max. Size: Up to 6 inches
• Temperature Range: 75-86°F (24-30°C)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Leopard Bushfish requires plenty of plants and hiding spots in the tank, which will help reduce potential aggression from their tank mates. Keep in mind that they may prey on smaller fish, so avoid housing them with tiny or timid species.

5. Common Plecos

Plecos, or suckermouth catfish, are among the most popular choices as companions for African cichlids due to their hardy nature and algae-eating abilities, which contribute to maintaining a cleaner aquarium. These fish spend most of their time at the bottom of the tank.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: Depends on the species – smaller types require 30 gallons, while larger ones need 125 gallons or more
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Primarily herbivorous – feed on algae, vegetables, and algae wafers, with occasional meaty treats
• Max. Size: Varies by species, ranging from 3 to 24 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-86°F (22-30°C)
• Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be territorial with its own kind

When selecting a Pleco for your African cichlid aquarium, consider its adult size and choose a species best suited to accommodate the size of your aquarium. Keep in mind that these bottom-dwellers enjoy hiding spots, so provide adequate caves and crevices for them to take shelter.

6. Hoplo Catfish

Hoplo Catfish, with their peaceful temperament and sturdy nature, make excellent mates for African cichlids, coexisting harmoniously within a community tank.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Care Level: Easy
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – enjoys a diet of sinking pellets, flakes, live and frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp
• Max. Size: Up to 6 inches
• Temperature Range: 71-77°F (22-25°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful

While they can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, Hoplo Catfish do appreciate hiding spots and plenty of plants where they can retreat when needed. These gentle bottom-dwellers are a great choice for aquarists looking for a reliable and amicable tank mate for their African cichlids.

7. Clown Loach

Clown Loaches are known for their vibrant coloration and playful antics, making them a delightful addition to an African cichlid tank, as long as proper water conditions are met for both species.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 75 gallons
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – consumes sinking pellets, live and frozen foods like bloodworms, and vegetable matter, including blanched zucchini
• Max. Size: Up to 12 inches
• Temperature Range: 77-86°F (25-30°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful when kept in schools

These social fish thrive in groups of at least five, so make sure you have enough tank space to accommodate their needs. Provide plenty of hiding spots, and be aware that Clown Loaches enjoy uprooting plants, so choose hardy plant varieties for your aquarium setup.

8. Red Tail Shark

The Red Tail Shark, known for its striking appearance and assertive nature, can be the perfect tank mate for more aggressive Malawi African cichlids if the right conditions are provided.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 55 gallons
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – enjoys high-quality pellets, flakes, live and frozen foods, as well as vegetables like spinach
• Max. Size: Up to 6 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive to aggressive, especially towards its own species

Red Tail Sharks need plenty of swimming space and hiding spots, so ensure your tank offers sufficient room and decor for them. It’s crucial to monitor their temperament, as they can become territorial and should not be housed with too timid or smaller fish species.

9. Giant Danios

Giant Danios, with their energetic nature and colorful appearance, make a lively addition to an African cichlid tank, keeping the environment active and engaging.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Care Level: Easy
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – voracious eaters, feeding on flakes, live and frozen foods, as well as vegetable matter
• Max. Size: Up to 4 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Temperament: Active, generally peaceful but can be fin nippers

As a schooling fish, Giant Danios appreciate the company of their own kind, so it’s best to include a group of at least five. Provide plenty of open swimming space for these agile swimmers, and remember to secure your tank with a tight-fitting lid, as they’re notorious jumpers.

10. Rainbow Fish

Rainbow Fish, with their dazzling colors and peaceful demeanor, can make excellent tank mates for some less aggressive African cichlid species, adding a touch of vibrancy to your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – prefers high-quality flakes, live and frozen foods, such as brine shrimp or daphnia, and enjoys vegetable matter, too
• Max. Size: Varies by species, ranging from 2 to 6 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful

When keeping Rainbow Fish with African cichlids, ensure that the water parameters are compatible, and select more assertive Rainbow Fish species that can hold their own among cichlids. Providing ample hiding spots and a grouped set-up will also help to ensure their comfort and well-being.

11. African Red-Eyed Tetra

African Red-Eyed Tetras, known for their distinctive red eyes and hardy nature, can make suitable tank mates for less aggressive African cichlids in a community aquarium.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 50 gallons
• Care Level: Easy
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – appreciates a varied diet of high-quality flakes, live and frozen foods, such as brine shrimp and bloodworms
• Max. Size: Up to 4 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful

As a schooling fish, African Red-Eyed Tetras enjoy the company of their own kind and do best in a group of at least six individuals. Ensure that you provide ample hiding spots to offer them a sense of security in a tank with other bustling species.

12. Siamese Algae Eater

Siamese Algae Eaters, well-regarded for their algae-eating capabilities, can make practical and compatible tank mates for many African cichlid species.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Care Level: Easy
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – primarily consumes algae but also enjoys sinking pellets, flakes, live and frozen foods, such as bloodworms or brine shrimp
• Max. Size: Up to 6 inches
• Temperature Range: 75-79°F (24-26°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful

These peaceful and efficient algae eaters do well alongside less aggressive cichlid species, but it’s essential to provide them with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants and caves. Siamese Algae Eaters can coexist harmoniously, and are an excellent choice to help maintain overall aquarium cleanliness.

13. Flying Fox Fish

Flying Fox Fish, admired for their engaging appearance and active nature, make good tank mates for many African cichlids. Set up the tank with plenty of hiding places and plants.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – mainly feeds on algae but also appreciates sinking pellets, flakes, live and frozen foods, such as tubifex worms or daphnia
• Max. Size: Up to 6 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful when young but can be territorial as adults

While they can display territorial behavior towards their own kind, Flying Fox Fish typically do well with less-aggressive African cichlids. Remember to offer plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas to ensure everyone thrives in a harmonious and vibrant aquarium environment.

14. Pictus Catfish

Pictus Catfish, known for their long whiskers and unique appearance, can make an intriguing addition to a larger African cichlid tank with the right setup and conditions.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 55 gallons
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous – prefers live and frozen foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish, but also accepts high-quality pellets and flakes
• Max. Size: Up to 5 inches
• Temperature Range: 75-81°F (24-27°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful

These lively, nocturnal scavengers require lots of hiding spots and prefer being in small groups. Be cautious when pairing them with small or slow-moving tank mates, as they can show predatory instincts towards them.

15. Scat Fish

Scat Fish, recognized for their striking coloration and unique shape, can make a fascinating and resilient mate for African cichlids in brackish water aquariums.

• Compatibility: 2 out of 5
• Min. Tank Size: 75 gallons
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – eats a varied diet, including pellets, flakes, brine shrimp, and vegetables, such as spinach and lettuce
• Max. Size: Up to 12 inches
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Temperament: Peaceful but can be territorial

While not commonly recommended to be kept with African Cichlids due to their preference for brackish water, if you can maintain suitable conditions for both species, Scat Fish can make an exciting and conversation-starter addition to your aquarium. Just remember to provide plenty of swimming space and hiding spots.