๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Black Phantom Tetra and Peacock 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 Peacock Cichlid Compatibility Overview

Black Phantom Tetra and Peacock 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 Peacock Cichlid wants 7.5โ€“9.0. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Black Phantom Tetra and Peacock Cichlid
FactorBlack Phantom TetraPeacock CichlidVerdict
Temperature68โ€“82ยฐF73โ€“84ยฐFโœ… 73โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range5.0โ€“7.07.5โ€“9.0โŒ No overlap
Temperamentpeacefulsemiโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size1.4 in5.1 inโš ๏ธ 3.6ร— difference
Min. Group8+4+See below
Min. Tank Size75 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 Peacock Cichlid wants 7.5โ€“9.0.

Species Profiles

Black Phantom Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon megalopterus

Black Phantom Tetra and Peacock 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

Peacock Cichlid โ€” Aulonocara stuartgranti

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

The Peacock Cichlid, Aulonocara nyassae, is a stunning fish with vibrant blue and yellow colors. These fish are known for their aggression and require a mature and well-maintained tank. They are best kept in pairs or in a species-specific tank. Careful attention must be given to water parameters and tank setup to ensure their health and well-being.

โ†’ Full Peacock Cichlid care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Phantom Tetra live with Peacock Cichlid?

Generally not recommended. Black Phantom Tetra and Peacock 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 Peacock Cichlid wants 7.5โ€“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 Peacock Cichlid together?

A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for keeping Black Phantom Tetra and Peacock Cichlid together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Black Phantom Tetra and Peacock Cichlid?

73โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Black Phantom Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF and Peacock Cichlid's 73โ€“84ยฐF.

Is a Black Phantom Tetra aggressive toward a Peacock Cichlid?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Black Phantom Tetra and Peacock Cichlid

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

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable75 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community125 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup150 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.