Can Venustus 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 Venustus Cichlid and Neon Tetra for 1 specific conflict codes. Plan for at least 125 gallons.

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No, avoid this pairing

Data confidence: high

Verified sources: Nimbochromis venustus overview

venustus cichlid | neon tetra | venustus 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.
Venustus cichlid in a retail African cichlid aquarium
Venustus cichlid in a retail African cichlid aquarium.

Water parameter comparison

Venustus Cichlid temperature74-80F
Neon Tetra temperature72-78F
Venustus Cichlid pH7.6-8.6
Neon Tetra pH6-7.5
Venustus Cichlid GH10-20 dGH
Neon Tetra GH1-10 dGH
Minimum tank125 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

Check BioloadCalculate if your tank volume and filtration can support this pairing.Find More Tank MatesSee other compatible species and compare more pairings.Water Parameter CheckConfirm that your tap water matches the selected species.

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