What is the best size tank for African cichlids?

A well stocked African cichlid tank will rival many saltwater aquariums in brilliant colors. Housing: Most of these fish grow to an adult size of 5 to 8”. To keep these active and colorful fish we advise at least 55 gallons. A 60 to 100 gallon is even better to allow for future growth.

How do I choose an African cichlid?

When selecting your fish at the pet store, look for active fish which come to the front of the tank when you approach. Cichlids all have very good (if nearsighted) vision and can see well outside their tank. If the tank has no decorations, most of the fish should be in the lower half of the tank.

How many African cichlids can go in a 40 gallon tank?

You can raise 5-6 mid-sized cichlids or 10-12 dwarf cichlids quite easily in a 40-gallon tank, given that there’s a reliable filtration mechanism in place. The rule of thumb is 2 gallons of water for every inch of fully grown fish.

How big can African cichlids get?

4 to 10 inches
An African cichlid can grow to 4 to 10 inches at maturity, depending on the species. Adequate nutrition is obviously important to the fish’s growth, but environmental quality also determine’s a cichlid’s growth rate and his health over a lifetime. An African cichlid can live up to 10 years.

How many African cichlids can I put in a 55 gallon tank?

15 African cichlids
African cichlids do better when crowded with other African cichlids, but they should be monitored for aggressive behavior and removed if needed. A 55 gallon tank can house up to 15 African cichlids depending on species, maximum size and temperament.

What size tank does a cichlid need?

30 gallons
How Big Should Their Tank Be? Since African cichlids are an active and aggressive species, they should have plenty of space. Fish that are at least six inches long should be considered larger, and require a minimum of 30 gallons of aquarium space. Smaller fish need at least a 20-gallon tank.

How big can cichlids get?

African Cichlid Facts & Overview

What size tank do I need for 2 African cichlids?

Since African cichlids are an active and aggressive species, they should have plenty of space. Fish that are at least six inches long should be considered larger, and require a minimum of 30 gallons of aquarium space. Smaller fish need at least a 20-gallon tank.

Can African cichlids live in a 20 gallon tank?

A 20 gallon tank is too small to house African cichlids, they would need a minimum of 55 gallons. You might want to try German blue rams or Bolivian rams. You can raise African cichlid fry in your 20 gallon tank but you would have to move them to something bigger after a few months.

Are cichlids good for beginners?

If there is one universally agreed upon beginner cichlid, it’s probably the convict cichlid. These fish are incredibly hardy, breed readily, and are extremely prolific. While these fish can be kept in semi-aggressive community tanks, it’s recommended to keep them in a species only aquarium.

What size tank is good for cichlids?

Since African cichlids are an active and aggressive species, they should have plenty of space. What is this? Fish that are at least six inches long should be considered larger, and require a minimum of 30 gallons of aquarium space. Smaller fish need at least a 20-gallon tank.

What makes the perfect cichlid tank?

What Makes The Perfect Cichlid Tank? Cichlid Overview (101) This acrylic aquarium is not only 17 times stronger than glass but also half the weight. Setting up the Perfect Cichlid Aquarium. Oscar Habitat and Tank Requirements. Angelfish Habitat and Tank Requirements. Discus Habitat and Tank Requirements. Convict Cichlid Habitat and Tank Requirements. Summary.

How many cichlids for a 40 gallon tank?

I’m lucky to have a local fish shop that mostly specializes in cichlids. When I talked to the guy working there, he suggested for my 40 gallon that I should get all males (to avoid hybridization) and approximately 12 for a 40 gallon tank to overstock them and prevent fighting.

What fish are compatible with African cichlids?

Aggressive and sometimes predatory, the African cichlid does best with freshwater fish, such as Synodontis catfish, Botia loaches, Labeo sharks, suckermouth catfish and the larger tetras.

How large do African cichlids get?

The most common African Cichlid species available from pet stores grow to 4 to 6 inches, and some get as big as 10 inches. This family of fish includes more than 100 species with varying degrees of aggressiveness.