๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โœ… Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 90/100
90/100 โ€” Compatible

Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra Compatibility Overview

Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 75-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

Compatibility factors for Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra
FactorKeyhole CichlidLemon TetraVerdict
Temperature70โ€“82ยฐF68โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 70โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range4.0โ€“7.55.0โ€“7.5โœ… 5.0โ€“7.5
Temperamentpeacefulpeacefulโœ… Compatible
Adult Size4.3 in1.6 inโš ๏ธ 2.7ร— difference
Min. Group2+8+See below
Min. Tank Size75 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

A stable shared temperature range is available.
Their pH requirements overlap.
Temperament risk is relatively low when normal group sizes are maintained.

Caution Points

No major compatibility issues identified for this pair.

Species Profiles

Keyhole Cichlid โ€” Cleithracara maronii

Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra compatibility โ€” Keyhole Cichlid

The Keyhole Cichlid is a popular choice for beginners due to its relatively easy care and peaceful temperament. These fish are known for their distinct keyhole marking and vibrant coloration. They do well in a community tank with other peaceful species, but should be provided with plenty of hiding spots to feel secure.

โ†’ Full Keyhole Cichlid care guide

Lemon Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis

Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra compatibility โ€” Lemon Tetra

The Lemon Tetra is a vibrant, peaceful addition to freshwater tanks. Known for its striking yellow and red colors, it is well-suited for community tanks. They are active swimmers and thrive in groups. Maintaining stable water conditions is key to their health.

โ†’ Full Lemon Tetra care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Keyhole Cichlid live with Lemon Tetra?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 75-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

What tank size do I need for Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra together?

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

What temperature suits both Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra?

70โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Keyhole Cichlid's 70โ€“82ยฐF and Lemon Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF.

Is a Keyhole Cichlid aggressive toward a Lemon Tetra?

Keyhole Cichlid is peaceful and Lemon Tetra is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Keyhole Cichlid and Lemon Tetra

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.