Salvin's Cichlid tank mates
Cichlasoma salvini
5 rated pairings from the Salvin's Cichlid care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Salvin's Cichlid needs at least 55 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Good matches
3 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.
Bristlenose Pleco
Ancistrus sp.
20 gal min · 5" adult · Peaceful
Bottom-dweller that avoids conflict; helps with algae control without competing for space
Severum
Heros severus
55 gal min · 8" adult · Semi-aggressive
Larger cichlid that can hold its own; less aggressive than Salvin's in most cases
Striped Raphael Catfish
Platydoras armatulus
50 gal min · 9" adult · Peaceful
Nocturnal bottom-dweller that minimizes daytime interaction and conflict
Use caution
2 · Works in the right setup; read the note before combining.Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
30 gal min · 6" adult · Semi-aggressive
Similar aggression levels; only compatible in larger tanks with multiple hiding spots
Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata
55 gal min · 8" adult · Aggressive
Comparable aggression; requires very large tank to minimize territorial disputes
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.