Can Ember Tetra Live With Rusty Cichlid?

Ember Tetra and Rusty Cichlid are NOT compatible tank mates.

Detailed Analysis

Temperature ✓ Compatible

Good temperature overlap at 75–82°F.

pH ✗ Not Compatible

No pH overlap. Ember Tetra needs pH 5.5–7, but Rusty Cichlid needs pH 7.5–8.5.

Size ⚠ Use Caution

Significant size difference (4" vs 0.8"). Rusty Cichlid may bully or stress Ember Tetra.

Temperament ⚠ Use Caution

Ember Tetra (peaceful) may have issues with Rusty Cichlid (semi-aggressive). Monitor closely if attempting.

Swim Level ✓ Compatible

Swim level compatibility is fine.

Important Notes

  • Ember Tetra is a schooling fish and needs at least 8 of its kind.

Tank Requirements

Minimum tank size for this combination: 30 gallons

ParameterEmber TetraRusty Cichlid
Temperature73–84°F75–82°F
pH5.5–77.5–8.5
Max Size0.8"4"
TemperamentPeacefulSemi-aggressive
Swim LevelMiddleMiddle
Min Tank10 gal30 gal

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