Can Auratus Cichlid live with Neon Tetra?

Troubleshooting community setups: see the compatibility result using temperature, pH, GH/KH, adult size, behavior, schooling needs, and predator/prey rules.

Quick Summary: No, this pairing should usually be avoided. We evaluated Auratus Cichlid and Neon Tetra for 5 specific conflict codes. Plan for at least 55 gallons.

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No, avoid this pairing

Data confidence: high

Verified sources: Mbuna overview | Labidochromis caeruleus overview

auratus cichlid | neon tetra | auratus cichlid | neon tetra

Observed photo context

Observed aquarium photo examples

These photos show observed aquarium setups for the selected species. They are useful context, but they do not change the compatibility result or replace tank-size, temperament, group-size, and water-parameter checks.

Neon tetra in a freshwater aquarium
Neon tetra in a freshwater aquarium.
Auratus cichlid near an electric yellow cichlid
Auratus cichlid near an electric yellow cichlid.

Water parameter comparison

Auratus Cichlid temperature72-80F
Neon Tetra temperature72-78F
Auratus Cichlid pH7.5-8.6
Neon Tetra pH6-7.5
Auratus Cichlid GH10-20 dGH
Neon Tetra GH1-10 dGH
Minimum tank55 gal
Last updated2026-06-11

Confidence: high. Aggression, predator/prey, shrimp risk, schooling, and tank size rules are evaluated from curated freshwater attributes.

Next steps

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