Cichlid
The numbers that always matter
| Test | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Ammonia | 0 ppm | Toxic. Any reading means the cycle or filter needs help. |
| Nitrite | 0 ppm | Toxic. Blocks oxygen in the blood. |
| Nitrate | Under about 20 to 40 ppm | Lower is better. Keep it down with water changes. |
Cheat sheet by cichlid type
| Type | pH | Hardness | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Malawi | 7.8 to 8.6 | Hard | 76 to 82 F |
| Lake Tanganyika | 8.0 to 9.0 | Hard | 75 to 80 F |
| Central American | 7.0 to 8.0 | Moderate to hard | 75 to 82 F |
| South American (most captive bred) | 6.5 to 7.5 | Soft to moderate | 76 to 82 F |
| Discus | 6.0 to 7.0 | Soft | 82 to 86 F |
These are typical keeping ranges. Individual species vary, so always check the needs of the exact fish you buy.
Stability beats perfection. A steady pH a little outside the ideal range is safer than one that swings every week because you keep adjusting it.
A water change routine that works
- Change about 25 to 50 percent of the water every week.
- Vacuum the sand or gravel lightly to pull out waste.
- Treat new water with conditioner and match the temperature closely.
- Test weekly at first, then whenever something looks off.
Quick glossary
- pH: how acidic or alkaline the water is. 7 is neutral.
- GH (general hardness): dissolved calcium and magnesium.
- KH (carbonate hardness): the buffer that keeps pH from crashing.
- TDS: total dissolved solids, a rough measure of everything in the water.
Frequently asked questions
What pH do cichlids need?
It depends on the type. African rift lake cichlids like about 7.8 to 8.6, while most captive bred South Americans do well around 6.5 to 7.5.
How often should I change water in a cichlid tank?
Most cichlid tanks do well with a 25 to 50 percent water change every week.
What temperature should a cichlid tank be?
Most cichlids are comfortable around 76 to 82 F. Discus are kept warmer, about 82 to 86 F.
What you will need
- Liquid master test kitTests pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate.Check price on Amazon
- GH and KH test kitKnow your hardness and buffer.Check price on Amazon
- Water changer hoseMakes weekly water changes fast, no buckets.Check price on Amazon
- Digital thermometerSpot heater problems early.Check price on Amazon
- Water conditionerFor every water change.Check price on Amazon
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