Can Neon Tetra Live With Peacock Cichlid?
No, peacock cichlids are large predatory fish that eat neon tetras, and their pH requirements do not overlap.
Why
- Peacock cichlids grow to 4-6 inches and are African cichlids with strong predatory instincts.
- Neon tetras stay at 1.5 inches and fit easily in an adult peacock's mouth.
- Peacock cichlids require pH 7.8-8.5 (alkaline). Neon tetras require pH 6.0-7.0 (acidic). There is no overlap.
- Keeping either species in mismatched pH causes long-term health problems including organ stress and poor coloration.
- Temperature overlap exists (76-81F), but the pH gap alone rules out cohabitation.
What could go wrong
Either the tetras fade in mismatched alkaline water or the cichlid eats them, depending on which water chemistry wins.
If you keep them in separate tanks
Sized for the 55 gallon minimum this pairing needs. Affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them.
Fluval 307 Performance Canister Filter
Oversized filtration is what lets you stock two species together without water quality crashing. Rated for a tank slightly larger than the 55 gallon minimum.
Eheim Jager 300W Thermostat Heater
Holds a steady temperature inside the 76-81°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.
Better pairings to consider
Peacock cichlids do well with other African cichlids from Lake Malawi. Neon tetras do well in soft-water community tanks with rasboras or corydoras.
Related compatibility questions
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