Pet Information > ASK Experts > Pet Fish > Freshwater Aquarium > Cichlids and dwarf frogs

Cichlids and dwarf frogs

23 15:18:41

Question
Hello,
I just have a question, I have a large cichlid in a ten gallon tank by himself and was wanting to add dwarf frogs . Would this be a bad idea?
Also, can these frogs coexist with small turtles in a tank of a larger size ?

Answer
Hi Charisse,
I hesitate greatly at the thought of adding such vulnerable little creatures like dwarf frogs to an environment containing a large cichlid. I'm not sure what species he is but most cichlids are very territorial and may view the frogs as food or simply chase and bite them because they are invading his territory.

Even adding other fish may be risky. When a large cichlid is housed in a 10gal by himself he quickly develops a severe protective instinct towards any new additions. Similar to a dog kept in a fenced yard, he will often very aggressively defend his surroundings.

With turtles the frogs are still at risk of being nipped or losing an arm or toe (should the turtles view the little wiggly frogs as food) so definitely keep this in mind.

Mixing different creatures is risky business. African Dwarf frogs are better in a tank by themselves or with small peaceful fish like tetras.

I hope this helps!
Susan~