๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra 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 Red Eye Tetra Compatibility Overview

Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra
FactorFrontosa CichlidRed Eye TetraVerdict
Temperature73โ€“81ยฐF72โ€“79ยฐFโœ… 73โ€“79ยฐF
pH Range8.0โ€“9.06.0โ€“8.0โš ๏ธ 8.0โ€“8.0 (narrow)
Temperamentsemisemiโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size10.0 in2.8 inโš ๏ธ 3.6ร— difference
Min. Group5+6+See below
Min. Tank Size100 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 usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water.
Both are semi, so give them a larger, well-planted tank and watch how they settle in.

Species Profiles

Frontosa Cichlid โ€” Cyphotilapia frontosa

Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra 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

Red Eye Tetra โ€” Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae

Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra compatibility โ€” Red Eye Tetra

The Red Eye Tetra is a popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant red eyes and sleek, silver body. They are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive species. Their moderate activity level makes them suitable for a variety of aquarium setups. With proper care, they can live up to 5 years.

โ†’ Full Red Eye Tetra care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Frontosa Cichlid live with Red Eye Tetra?

Generally not recommended. Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra together?

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

What temperature suits both Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra?

73โ€“79ยฐF โ€” inside Frontosa Cichlid's 73โ€“81ยฐF and Red Eye Tetra's 72โ€“79ยฐF.

Is a Frontosa Cichlid aggressive toward a Red Eye Tetra?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Frontosa Cichlid and Red Eye Tetra

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.