๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โŒ Not Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 32/100
32/100 โ€” Not Compatible

Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid Compatibility Overview

Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges do not meet: Black Phantom Tetra wants 5.0โ€“7.0 and Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid
FactorBlack Phantom TetraFrontosa CichlidVerdict
Temperature68โ€“82ยฐF73โ€“81ยฐFโœ… 73โ€“81ยฐF
pH Range5.0โ€“7.08.0โ€“9.0โŒ No overlap
Temperamentpeacefulsemiโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size1.4 in10.0 inโŒ 7ร— difference
Min. Group8+5+See below
Min. Tank Size100 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

A stable shared temperature range is available.
Temperament risk is relatively low when normal group sizes are maintained.

Incompatibility Reasons

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Their pH ranges do not meet: Black Phantom Tetra wants 5.0โ€“7.0 and Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0.

Species Profiles

Black Phantom Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon megalopterus

Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid compatibility โ€” Black Phantom Tetra

The Black Phantom Tetra is a popular freshwater fish known for its striking black and silver coloration. It is generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive species. They require a well-maintained tank with a moderate water flow and a good cover of plants.

โ†’ Full Black Phantom Tetra care guide

Frontosa Cichlid โ€” Cyphotilapia frontosa

Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid compatibility โ€” Frontosa Cichlid

The Frontosa Cichlid is a popular aquarium fish known for its vibrant colors and peaceful demeanor. They are suitable for beginners and can thrive in a well-maintained community tank. Providing ample space and avoiding overcrowding is essential for their well-being.

โ†’ Full Frontosa Cichlid care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Phantom Tetra live with Frontosa Cichlid?

Generally not recommended. Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges do not meet: Black Phantom Tetra wants 5.0โ€“7.0 and Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid together?

A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid?

73โ€“81ยฐF โ€” inside Black Phantom Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF and Frontosa Cichlid's 73โ€“81ยฐF.

Is a Black Phantom Tetra aggressive toward a Frontosa Cichlid?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Black Phantom Tetra and Frontosa Cichlid

Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable228 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community350 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup450 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.