Aquarium Compatibility: Rainbow Shark and African Cichlids

Can a small rainbow shark coexist in an 80-gallon tank with African cichlids?

Is it advisable to keep a small rainbow shark in the same tank with African cichlids in an 80-gallon aquarium?

Answer:

While both African cichlids and rainbow sharks can live in large aquariums, their contradictory behaviors and different water preferences can cause issues. Therefore, it is not recommended to house them together in the same tank.

In the world of aquarium pet keeping, compatibility among species is crucial for the well-being of the inhabitants. Both the rainbow shark and African cichlids are popular among aquarists, but their cohabitation can present challenges. This is due to different habitat preferences and levels of aggression.

Rainbow sharks, despite their small size, are known for their territorial behavior. They generally do best in a tank where they can claim their own space, free from competition. On the other hand, the African cichlids from Lake Tanganyika, such as Lamprologus mooquardi and Eretmodus cyanosticus, can be aggressive too, especially during breeding times.

Moreover, there's the question of the preferred water parameters. African cichlids thrive in alkaline water, whereas Rainbow sharks prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. Therefore, despite having an 80-gallon tank which generally provides ample space, it may not be best to house these two species together due to their different requirements and behavior.