Redbelly tilapia vs Aulonocara Fort Maguire: can they live together?

Verdict: With caution

  • The Aulonocara Fort Maguire can be semi-aggressive or nip fins.
  • The Redbelly tilapia is best kept in a species tank.
  • The Redbelly tilapia can be semi-aggressive or nip fins.
  • The Redbelly tilapia grows about twice as long as the Aulonocara Fort Maguire; watch for bullying or predation.
  • Both are comfortable at 25–29°C (77–84°F).
  • A pH of 7.5–8.8 suits both.
  • Minimum tank for the pair: 475 L (125 US gal)

Side by side

Redbelly tilapiaAulonocara Fort Maguire
Adult size40 cm (16 in)15 cm (5.9 in)
Minimum tank475 L (125 US gal)210 L (55 US gal)
Temperature11–36°C (52–97°F)25–29°C (77–84°F)
pH6.0–9.07.5–8.8
Hardness5–20 dGH (89–357 ppm)10–25 dGH (178–446 ppm)
TemperamentSemi-aggressiveSemi-aggressive
Community tankNot suitable–
Care levelEasyEasy
DietOmnivoreOmnivore

Species profiles