๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Molly and Severum Cichlid Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โš ๏ธ Use Caution โ€” Compatibility Score: 52/100
52/100 โ€” Use Caution

Molly and Severum Cichlid Compatibility Overview

Molly and Severum Cichlid can potentially coexist, but the combination requires careful attention. Their pH ranges do not meet: Molly wants 7.5โ€“8.5 and Severum Cichlid wants 5.5โ€“7.0. A larger tank (minimum 100 gallons), dense planting, and close monitoring are essential.

Compatibility factors for Molly and Severum Cichlid
FactorMollySeverum CichlidVerdict
Temperature72โ€“82ยฐF72โ€“84ยฐFโœ… 72โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range7.5โ€“8.55.5โ€“7.0โŒ No overlap
Temperamentpeacefulsemiโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size4 in11.8 inโš ๏ธ 3.0ร— difference
Min. Group3+1+See below
Min. Tank Size100 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

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

Caution Points

Their pH ranges do not meet: Molly wants 7.5โ€“8.5 and Severum Cichlid wants 5.5โ€“7.0.

Species Profiles

Molly โ€” Poecilia sphenops

Molly and Severum Cichlid compatibility โ€” Molly

Hardy livebearers that prefer alkaline, hard water โ€” sometimes slightly brackish. Prolific breeders; peaceful community fish.

โ†’ Full Molly care guide

Severum Cichlid โ€” Heros efasciatus

Molly 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 Molly live with Severum Cichlid?

With significant caution and a larger tank. Molly and Severum Cichlid can potentially coexist, but the combination requires careful attention. Their pH ranges do not meet: Molly wants 7.5โ€“8.5 and Severum Cichlid wants 5.5โ€“7.0. A larger tank (minimum 100 gallons), dense planting, and close monitoring are essential.

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

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

What temperature suits both Molly and Severum Cichlid?

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

Is a Molly aggressive toward a Severum Cichlid?

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

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Molly 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.