๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Keyhole Cichlid and Serpae Tetra Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โœ… Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 84/100
84/100 โ€” Compatible

Keyhole Cichlid and Serpae Tetra Compatibility Overview

Keyhole Cichlid and Serpae Tetra can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Keyhole Cichlid is peaceful and Serpae Tetra is semi, so give them room and cover rather than assuming they will ignore each other. A minimum 75-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

Compatibility factors for Keyhole Cichlid and Serpae Tetra
FactorKeyhole CichlidSerpae TetraVerdict
Temperature70โ€“82ยฐF68โ€“82ยฐFโœ… 70โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range4.0โ€“7.55.0โ€“7.5โœ… 5.0โ€“7.5
Temperamentpeacefulsemiโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size4.3 in1.6 inโš ๏ธ 2.7ร— difference
Min. Group2+10+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 Serpae 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

Serpae Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon eques

Keyhole Cichlid and Serpae Tetra compatibility โ€” Serpae Tetra

The Serpae Tetra is a popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant coloration and peaceful nature. It is well-suited for community tanks and can be a great addition to any aquarium. With its moderate activity level and easy care requirements, it is a suitable choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

โ†’ Full Serpae Tetra care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Keyhole Cichlid live with Serpae Tetra?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Keyhole Cichlid and Serpae Tetra can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Keyhole Cichlid is peaceful and Serpae Tetra is semi, so give them room and cover rather than assuming they will ignore each 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 Serpae Tetra together?

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

What temperature suits both Keyhole Cichlid and Serpae Tetra?

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

Is a Keyhole Cichlid aggressive toward a Serpae Tetra?

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

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Keyhole Cichlid and Serpae 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.