The Complete Guide to African Cichlids

African cichlids from Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Victoria are prized for their intense colors and complex social behavior, but they need a different approach than typical community fish.

Tank Size and Setup

Most African cichlids are territorial, so a larger footprint with plenty of rockwork and caves helps break up sightlines and reduce aggression. A 55-gallon or larger tank is recommended for a proper community. See our aquarium selection for larger tank options.

Water Chemistry

Unlike most South American species, Rift Lake cichlids need harder, more alkaline water, typically pH 7.8-8.6. Crushed coral substrate helps buffer pH upward naturally. Review Understanding Aquarium Water Parameters before stocking.

Stocking Strategy

Overstocking is actually a common technique with Mbuna-type cichlids, since it distributes aggression across many targets rather than concentrating it on a few individuals. Research the specific species mix carefully, though, since some are far more aggressive than others. Browse our African cichlids including the Night Star Frontosa.

Diet

Many Rift Lake cichlids are herbivorous or omnivorous grazers in the wild. Overfeeding protein-rich foods to herbivorous species can cause bloat, so choose spirulina-based foods for Mbuna specifically.

Compatibility

Avoid mixing Rift Lake cichlids with soft-water South American cichlids, since their water chemistry needs conflict. Within the same lake, research specific species compatibility since some hybridize or fight more than others.

For background on this remarkable group of fish, see the Wikipedia entry on cichlids.