๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Ember Tetra and Jewel 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

Ember Tetra and Jewel Cichlid Compatibility Overview

Ember Tetra and Jewel Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Ember Tetra and Jewel Cichlid
FactorEmber TetraJewel CichlidVerdict
Temperature73โ€“84ยฐF72โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 73โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range5.5โ€“7.06.0โ€“7.8โœ… 6.0โ€“7.0
TemperamentpeacefulaggressiveโŒ Risk
Adult Size0.8 in5.9 inโŒ 7ร— difference
Min. Group8+2+See below
Min. Tank Size75 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

A stable shared temperature range is available.

Incompatibility Reasons

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady.
Ember Tetra is peaceful and Jewel Cichlid is aggressive. Expect chasing and fin damage unless the tank is oversized, heavily planted, and watched closely.

Species Profiles

Ember Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon amandae

Ember Tetra and Jewel Cichlid compatibility โ€” Ember Tetra

Tiny orange-red schooling tetra that is among the most adaptable nano fish. Peaceful with everything too small to eat them.

โ†’ Full Ember Tetra care guide

Jewel Cichlid โ€” Hemichromis bimaculatus

Ember Tetra and Jewel Cichlid compatibility โ€” Jewel Cichlid

The Jewel Cichlid, Hemichromis bimaculatus, is a vibrant and territorial fish popular in the aquarium trade. They require a spacious tank with hiding spots and can be moderately aggressive. With proper care, they can be a rewarding addition to the home aquarium.

โ†’ Full Jewel Cichlid care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Ember Tetra live with Jewel Cichlid?

Generally not recommended. Ember Tetra and Jewel Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Ember Tetra and Jewel Cichlid together?

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

What temperature suits both Ember Tetra and Jewel Cichlid?

73โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Ember Tetra's 73โ€“84ยฐF and Jewel Cichlid's 72โ€“82ยฐF.

Is a Ember Tetra aggressive toward a Jewel Cichlid?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Ember Tetra and Jewel 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.