Compatibility Overview
Jewel Cichlid and Nerite Snail are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
| Factor | Jewel Cichlid | Nerite Snail | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 65–85°F | ✅ 72–79°F |
| pH Range | 7.0–8.0 | 6.5–8.5 | ✅ 7.0–8.0 |
| Temperament | aggressive | peaceful | ❌ Risk |
| Adult Size | 3.1 in | 1 in | ⚠️ 3.1× difference |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 29 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
❌ Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Jewel Cichlid — Aquarium species
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.
→ Full Jewel Cichlid care guide
Nerite Snail — Nerita spp.
Outstanding algae-eating snails that do not reproduce in freshwater. Extremely hardy and compatible with virtually all peaceful fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Jewel Cichlid live with Nerite Snail?
Generally not recommended. Jewel Cichlid and Nerite Snail are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
What tank size do I need for Jewel Cichlid and Nerite Snail together?
A minimum of 29 gallons is recommended for keeping Jewel Cichlid and Nerite Snail together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Jewel Cichlid and Nerite Snail?
72–79°F
Is a Jewel Cichlid aggressive toward a Nerite Snail?
Jewel Cichlid is aggressive and Nerite Snail is peaceful. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Compatibility score breakdown
The overall score is weighted across water chemistry, behavior, adult size, swimming zone, and social needs. A score is a planning aid—not a guarantee for individual fish.
| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 100/100 |
| Ph | 100/100 |
| Temperament | 30/100 |
| Adult Size | 38/100 |
| Swim Zone | 68/100 |
| Social Needs | 92/100 |
Tank size scenarios
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 29 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 40 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 55 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |