An aggressive species, Johanni Cichlids can usually only coexist with other Cichlids of the same species. A male can be a tankmate with 2 females assuming a tank size of 30 – 40 gallons or more. If planning a mixed African Cichlid tank make sure to have even more room available.

Often confused with Maingano (Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos, formerly Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos) Johanni Cichlid can be tricky to find correctly identified in the aquarium hobby. Johanni Cichlid and Maingano hybrids are also common and the source of more confusion. Pure P. johannii can be identified by the bright yellow-orange coloration of females. Mainganos and hybrids of these two species are more difficult to sex as males and females display similar coloration.