Can Swordtail Live With Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)?
Swordtail and Peacock Cichlid may coexist with careful monitoring, adequate space, and hiding spots.
Conditions: Minimum 55 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Swordtail | Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–82°F | 75–82°F | 76–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8 | 7.5–8.5 | 7.8–8.4 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi-aggressive | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 5.5" | 5.9" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 53 gal | 55 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Swordtail + Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)
To keep Swordtail and Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) together, you need at minimum a 55 gallon tank. Swordtail should be kept in a school of 4+. Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) should be kept in a school of 1+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
The Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) is a beginner freshwater species known for its red-orange, green coloration. Males have elongated sword-like tail. Mid to Top.
Full care guide →Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)
Aulonocara spp.
The Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) (Aulonocara spp.) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its blue, yellow, orange (varies by species) coloration. Many colorful species. Mid to Bottom.
Full care guide →