My local fish store who is reliable sold me these fish together (excluding the African) and said they would be fine together. I really like the severum and donāt have another tank(except a29 gallon) so I guess Iāll have to put him there until he grows or just give him back. Sad but must be done.
I use to work in a fish department of one of the largest pet chains.
Most of the workers never experienced the exceptional work and love of fish keeping.
Some stores provide a "training work shop." It's a study guide with a test. After a few days, the new hire is suddenly versed to remember all 10,000 species of fish kept as pets. Whereas, there is an estimate of 33,000 species, or more, & the mix up of subspecies looking like something they aren't making a worker interacting with a customer that goldfish in the tank is not a goldfish, it's a Nemo fish. That is just an example.
It's best to research & study the fish you desire & it's compatibility before buying.
And this forum is wonderful, definitely this is a good source to find folks who have, can, & will share what will help long term.
The advice, thus far, sounds accurate, lil' guy is scared, there's bullies in the tank.