Can Convict Cichlid Live With Tiger Barb?
Yes, convict cichlids and tiger barbs coexist in 30 gallons or larger because both are aggressive enough to hold their own.
Why
- Convict cichlids grow to 5-6 inches. Tiger barbs reach 3 inches. The convict is larger but not large enough to swallow a barb.
- Convict cichlids are substrate spawners that claim a territory around their hiding spot. Tiger barbs stay in the open water column.
- Both tolerate 75-79F and pH 6.5-7.
- Tiger barbs are active and nippy. They will not be bullied by a single cichlid that stays near its cave.
What could go wrong
Convict cichlids become aggressive when spawning and will defend a territory against anything in their zone. A spawning convict can kill tiger barbs that swim too close.
Gear for a shared tank
Sized for the 30 gallon minimum this pairing needs. Affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them.
AquaClear 70 Power Filter
Oversized filtration is what lets you stock two species together without water quality crashing. Rated for a tank slightly larger than the 30 gallon minimum.
Eheim Jager 200W Thermostat Heater
Holds a steady temperature inside the 75-79°F window both species need.
API Freshwater Master Test Kit
Keep ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate in check. Two-species tanks have more bioload and less margin for error than single-species setups.
Related compatibility questions
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