Sometimes it’s just easier to look at a chart and move on.  For more detail about a compatibility component visit the compatibility discussions.  These charts are for freshwater and saltwater fish providing a summary of the compatibility information and more.

Each chart can be enlarged and zoomed into to see a specific fish or compatibility value.

The Water Flow Compatibility chart examines the type of water flow fish prefer.  Many fish have specific biological requirements that require a water flow in their natural habitat.  Some, on the other hand, are better suited to stagnant pools with little to no water flow.  Often water flow preference is related to spawning and food types.

Compatibility is determined by similar types of water flow.  Fish species that prefer turbulent water may not exhibit natural behaviors if placed in a stagnant water environment.

There are two main conditions that are represented in this chart:

1. High Turbulence Water: Fish that prefer living in environments with strong water currents.
2. Stagnant Water: Fish that prefer living in calm or still water environments.

A compatibility score is then assigned that represents the species preference for water flow.

• 3: Highly Compatible (Both fish prefer the same water flow condition)DARK GREY
• 2: Compatible (One fish prefers high turbulence water while the other is indifferent)GREY
• 1: Slightly Compatible (One fish prefers high turbulence water while the other prefers stagnant water)LIGHT GREY

Note: There are many factors that play into water flow.  The age of fish, the species, predators, the list goes on.  This chart is representative of aquarium fish with moderate turbulent water.  The amount of turbulence considered to be high turbulence is that which can be generated through the use of power-head equipment.  If greater turbulence is needed there are other types of external pumps and water take-up devices that can be used. 

Generally speaking, most aquarium fish enjoy water flow of some kind. 

The compatibility matrix is represented below.