Spotted ctenopoma vs Umbrella cichlid: can they live together?

Verdict: Not recommended

  • The Umbrella cichlid can be semi-aggressive or nip fins.
  • The Spotted ctenopoma is aggressive towards other fish.
  • The Spotted ctenopoma grows about twice as long as the Umbrella cichlid; watch for bullying or predation.
  • Their temperature ranges only just meet, at 25°C (77°F).
  • A pH of 6.0–7.0 suits both.

Side by side

Spotted ctenopomaUmbrella cichlid
Adult size15 cm (5.9 in)7 cm (2.8 in)
Minimum tank210 L (55 US gal)75 L (20 US gal)
Temperature5–25°C (41–77°F)25–27°C (77–81°F)
pH6.0–8.05.0–7.0
Hardness5–12 dGH (89–214 ppm)5–19 dGH (89–339 ppm)
TemperamentAggressiveSemi-aggressive
Community tankGoodGood
Care levelEasyModerate
DietCarnivoreCarnivore

Species profiles