๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Keyhole Cichlid and Severum Cichlid Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โœ… Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 81/100
81/100 โ€” Compatible

Keyhole Cichlid and Severum Cichlid Compatibility Overview

Keyhole Cichlid and Severum Cichlid can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Keyhole Cichlid is peaceful and Severum Cichlid is semi, so give them room and cover rather than assuming they will ignore each other. A minimum 100-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

Compatibility factors for Keyhole Cichlid and Severum Cichlid
FactorKeyhole CichlidSeverum CichlidVerdict
Temperature70โ€“82ยฐF72โ€“84ยฐFโœ… 72โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range4.0โ€“7.55.5โ€“7.0โœ… 5.5โ€“7.0
Temperamentpeacefulsemiโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size4.3 in11.8 inโš ๏ธ 2.7ร— difference
Min. Group2+1+See below
Min. Tank Size100 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 Severum Cichlid 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

Severum Cichlid โ€” Heros efasciatus

Keyhole Cichlid and Severum Cichlid compatibility โ€” Severum Cichlid

The Severum Cichlid, known for its vibrant colors and peaceful nature, is a popular choice for freshwater aquariums. They have a lifespan of around 5 years and require a minimum tank size of 80 liters. These fish are not schooling fish but are known to be gentle and compatible with a variety of tank mates.

โ†’ Full Severum Cichlid care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Keyhole Cichlid live with Severum Cichlid?

Yes, in a well-planned setup. Keyhole Cichlid and Severum Cichlid can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Keyhole Cichlid is peaceful and Severum Cichlid is semi, so give them room and cover rather than assuming they will ignore each other. A minimum 100-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.

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

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

What temperature suits both Keyhole Cichlid and Severum Cichlid?

72โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Keyhole Cichlid's 70โ€“82ยฐF and Severum Cichlid's 72โ€“84ยฐF.

Is a Keyhole Cichlid aggressive toward a Severum Cichlid?

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

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Keyhole Cichlid and Severum Cichlid

Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable100 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community150 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup180 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.