Can convict cichlids live with otocinclus?
Verdict
No
No. Convict cichlids and otocinclus should not share a tank. Convict cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful otocinclus.
What to watch
- Deal breakerConvict cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful otocinclus.
What works
- Both are fine at 74–79°F.
- pH 6.6–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Convict cichlid | Otocinclus | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–82 °F | 72–79 °F |
| pH | 6.6–7.8 | 6–7.5 |
| Adult size | 5.0 in | 2.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gal | 20 gal |
| Temperament | Aggressive | Peaceful |
| Swims at | Bottom | Bottom |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore | Herbivore |
Better tank mates for convict cichlids
All convict cichlid tank mates
Better tank mates for otocinclus
Questions
Can convict cichlids live with otocinclus?
No. Convict cichlids and otocinclus should not share a tank. Convict cichlids are aggressive and will bully peaceful otocinclus.
What temperature suits both convict cichlids and otocinclus?
74–79 °F. Convict cichlids need 74–82 °F, otocinclus need 72–79 °F.
What size tank do convict cichlids and otocinclus need together?
At least 30 gal, set by the convict cichlid. Add space for each extra fish.












