HomeCompare fishRed discus vs Cockatoo cichlid Red discus vs Cockatoo cichlid: can they live together? Verdict: With cautionThe Cockatoo cichlid is best kept in a species tank.The Red discus grows about twice as long as the Cockatoo cichlid; watch for bullying or predation.Their temperature ranges only just meet, at 27°C (81°F).A pH of 5.0–6.5 suits both.Minimum tank for the pair: 210 L (55 US gal)Side by sideRed discusCockatoo cichlidAdult size18 cm (7.1 in)7.5 cm (3 in)Minimum tank210 L (55 US gal)75 L (20 US gal)Temperature27–33°C (81–91°F)24–27°C (75–81°F)pH4.2–6.55.0–7.0Hardness–5–16 dGH (89–286 ppm)TemperamentPeacefulPeacefulCommunity tank–Not suitableCare levelModerateModerateDietCarnivoreCarnivoreSpecies profilesRed discusSymphysodon discusCockatoo cichlidApistogramma cacatuoides