The butterfly fish is generally quite peaceable, but its trailing finnage offers irresistible temptation to fin-nipping species. Furthermore, it will eat any fish it can fit in its mouth and is often aggressive towards other surface dwelling species. Recommended tankmates include other African species such as Congo tetras, elephant nose fish, Synodontis catfish, African knife fish, Ctenopoma species, and small to medium-sized West African cichlids. It can also be combined successfully with Corydoras, and many Loricariids and peaceful South American cichlids.

Butterfly fish can be somewhat aggressive towards conspecifics, but in a roomy tank with plenty of surface vegetation a small group can usually be kept without too many problems.