Can Cherry Barb Live With Firemouth Cichlid?
Cherry Barb and Firemouth Cichlid may coexist with careful monitoring, adequate space, and hiding spots.
Conditions: Minimum 30 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Cherry Barb | Firemouth Cichlid | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 73–86°F | 75–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi-aggressive | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 2" | 6.7" | Size mismatch ✗ |
| Min Tank Size | 11 gal | 53 gal | 30 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Cherry Barb + Firemouth Cichlid
To keep Cherry Barb and Firemouth Cichlid together, you need at minimum a 30 gallon tank. Cherry Barb should be kept in a school of 6+. Firemouth Cichlid should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Cherry Barb
Puntius titteya
The Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya) is a beginner freshwater species known for its red (male), brown-silver (female) coloration. Males turn cherry red. Mid to Lower.
Full care guide →Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
The Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its gray-blue, red throat/belly coloration. Red throat display when threatened. Mid to Bottom.
Full care guide →