Can convict cichlids live with bichirs?
Verdict
No
No. Convict cichlids and bichirs should not share a tank. An adult bichir eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches convict cichlids do.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAn adult bichir eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches convict cichlids do.
- Watch outConvict cichlids are aggressive. Bichirs hold their own only in a big tank with places to hide.
What works
- Both are fine at 74–82°F.
- pH 6.6–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Convict cichlid | Bichir | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–82 °F | 72–82 °F |
| pH | 6.6–7.8 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Adult size | 5.0 in | 12.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gal | 75 gal |
| Temperament | Aggressive | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Bottom | Bottom |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Alone or in pairs |
| Diet | Omnivore | Carnivore |
Better tank mates for convict cichlids
All convict cichlid tank mates
Better tank mates for bichirs
Questions
Can convict cichlids live with bichirs?
No. Convict cichlids and bichirs should not share a tank. An adult bichir eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches convict cichlids do.
What temperature suits both convict cichlids and bichirs?
74–82 °F. Convict cichlids need 74–82 °F, bichirs need 72–82 °F.
What size tank do convict cichlids and bichirs need together?
At least 75 gal, set by the bichir. Add space for each extra fish.