๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish 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

Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish Compatibility Overview

Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges do not meet: Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0 and Glass Catfish wants 4.0โ€“7.0. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish
FactorFrontosa CichlidGlass CatfishVerdict
Temperature73โ€“81ยฐF68โ€“79ยฐFโœ… 73โ€“79ยฐF
pH Range8.0โ€“9.04.0โ€“7.0โŒ No overlap
Temperamentsemipeacefulโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size10.0 in2.6 inโš ๏ธ 3.8ร— difference
Min. Group5+6+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: Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0 and Glass Catfish wants 4.0โ€“7.0.

Species Profiles

Frontosa Cichlid โ€” Cyphotilapia frontosa

Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish 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

Glass Catfish โ€” Kryptopterus vitreolus

Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish compatibility โ€” Glass Catfish

The Glass Catfish, Kryptopterus vitreolus, is a popular freshwater aquarium fish known for its unique, translucent body and iridescent scales. It is a peaceful species that thrives in groups and is suitable for beginners due to its hardy nature. These catfish are bottom-dwellers and require a well-decorated tank with plenty of swimming space.

โ†’ Full Glass Catfish care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Frontosa Cichlid live with Glass Catfish?

Generally not recommended. Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges do not meet: Frontosa Cichlid wants 8.0โ€“9.0 and Glass Catfish wants 4.0โ€“7.0. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish together?

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

What temperature suits both Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish?

73โ€“79ยฐF โ€” inside Frontosa Cichlid's 73โ€“81ยฐF and Glass Catfish's 68โ€“79ยฐF.

Is a Frontosa Cichlid aggressive toward a Glass Catfish?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Frontosa Cichlid and Glass Catfish

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.