Can neon tetras live with peacock cichlids?
Verdict
No
No. Neon tetras and peacock cichlids should not share a tank. Different water: neon tetras want pH 6–7, peacock cichlids want pH 7.8–8.6.
What to watch
- Deal breakerDifferent water: neon tetras want pH 6–7, peacock cichlids want pH 7.8–8.6.
- Watch outA grown peacock cichlid may treat small neon tetras as food, especially at night.
What works
- Both are fine at 76–79°F.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Neon tetra | Peacock cichlid | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79 °F | 76–82 °F |
| pH | 6–7 | 7.8–8.6 |
| Adult size | 1.5 in | 6.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 10 gal | 55 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Middle | Middle |
| Group | Groups of 6+ | Groups of 4+ |
| Diet | Omnivore | Carnivore |
Better tank mates for neon tetras
Better tank mates for peacock cichlids
MollyYes
Electric yellow cichlidYes
Firemouth cichlidYes
Blue gouramiYes
OscarYes
Chinese algae eaterYes
All peacock cichlid tank mates
Questions
Can neon tetras live with peacock cichlids?
No. Neon tetras and peacock cichlids should not share a tank. Different water: neon tetras want pH 6–7, peacock cichlids want pH 7.8–8.6.
What temperature suits both neon tetras and peacock cichlids?
76–79 °F. Neon tetras need 72–79 °F, peacock cichlids need 76–82 °F.
What size tank do neon tetras and peacock cichlids need together?
At least 55 gal, set by the peacock cichlid. Add space for each extra fish.