Pea Puffer and Severum Cichlid Compatibility Overview
Pea Puffer and Severum Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Pea Puffer | Severum Cichlid | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74โ82ยฐF | 72โ84ยฐF | โ 74โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 7.0โ8.0 | 5.5โ7.0 | โ ๏ธ 7.0โ7.0 (narrow) |
| Temperament | semi | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 1 in | 11.8 in | โ 12ร difference |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Pea Puffer โ Carinotetraodon travancoricus
World's smallest pufferfish โ intensely territorial and nippy despite tiny size. Will attack fins and eat shrimp and snails.
โ Full Pea Puffer care guide
Severum Cichlid โ Heros efasciatus
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Pea Puffer live with Severum Cichlid?
Generally not recommended. Pea Puffer and Severum Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Pea Puffer and Severum Cichlid together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Pea Puffer and Severum Cichlid together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Pea Puffer and Severum Cichlid?
74โ82ยฐF โ inside Pea Puffer's 74โ82ยฐF and Severum Cichlid's 72โ84ยฐF.
Is a Pea Puffer aggressive toward a Severum Cichlid?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Pea Puffer and Severum Cichlid
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 100 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 150 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 180 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |