Checkerboard Cichlid tank mates
Dicrossus filamentosus
5 rated pairings from the Checkerboard Cichlid care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Checkerboard Cichlid needs at least 20 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Excellent matches
1 · Same water, complementary zones, no conflict.
Good matches
3 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.
Ember Tetra
Hyphessobrycon amandae
10 gal min · 0.8" adult · Peaceful
Small, peaceful schooling fish compatible with blackwater conditions and similar temperature range
Panda Tetra
Aphyocharax paraguayensis
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Gentle micro-tetra that thrives in soft, acidic water without competing for bottom space
Ramshorn Snail
Planorbarius corneus
5 gal min · 0.75" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful algae grazer that shares preference for soft water and does not compete for food
Use caution
1 · Works in the right setup; read the note before combining.
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.