African Butterfly Fish and Percula Clownfish Compatibility Overview
African Butterfly Fish and Percula Clownfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: African Butterfly Fish wants 6.0โ7.5 and Percula Clownfish wants 8.1โ8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | African Butterfly Fish | Percula Clownfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73โ86ยฐF | 74โ82ยฐF | โ 74โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.0โ7.5 | 8.1โ8.4 | โ No overlap |
| Temperament | semi | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 4.7 in | 3.0 in | โ Similar |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 2+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 55 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
African Butterfly Fish โ Pantodon buchholzi
The African Butterfly Fish is a popular freshwater species known for its striking appearance and peaceful demeanor. It requires a well-maintained tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. With a moderate activity level, it is suitable for beginners and can be kept in a community tank with compatible species.
โ Full African Butterfly Fish care guide
Percula Clownfish โ Amphiprion percula
The Percula Clownfish, also known as the False Percula, is a popular beginner fish due to its hardiness and striking coloration. These fish are best kept in a saltwater tank with a minimum size of 30 gallons and compatible tankmates. They are peaceful, non-aggressive and do well in groups with other compatible species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can African Butterfly Fish live with Percula Clownfish?
Generally not recommended. African Butterfly Fish and Percula Clownfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: African Butterfly Fish wants 6.0โ7.5 and Percula Clownfish wants 8.1โ8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for African Butterfly Fish and Percula Clownfish together?
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping African Butterfly Fish and Percula Clownfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both African Butterfly Fish and Percula Clownfish?
74โ82ยฐF โ inside African Butterfly Fish's 73โ86ยฐF and Percula Clownfish's 74โ82ยฐF.
Is a African Butterfly Fish aggressive toward a Percula Clownfish?
African Butterfly Fish is semi and Percula Clownfish is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for African Butterfly Fish and Percula Clownfish
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 55 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 75 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 100 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |