CichlidBest cichlid equipment, food and tanks
Honest picks for filters, heaters, water care, food, tanks and rockwork. We never list made up prices. Check current prices on Amazon.
Filtration
Cichlids are messy and strong. Plan on filtration rated well above your tank size, and a second filter so you never lose your bacteria.
See 4 picks
Heating & lighting
Most cichlids like 76 to 82 F. Size the heater to your tank, and pick a light that makes their colors pop.
See 4 picks
Water care
Clean, stable water prevents most problems. These are the tools that make weekly care quick.
See 4 picks
Food
The right food depends on the fish. Mbuna need greens, oscars want hearty pellets and dwarfs want tiny bites.
See 7 picks
Tanks
Bigger water is more stable water. Match the tank to the fish, then buy the strongest stand you can.
See 6 picks
Rock & decor
Rockwork builds territories and breaks lines of sight, which keeps aggression down.
See 5 picksTop Picks for Cichlid Keepers
Canister filter
Moves lots of water and holds lots of media. The workhorse of most cichlid tanks.
Check price on AmazonAdjustable aquarium heater
Pick one sized to your tank, or two smaller ones for safety.
Check price on AmazonLiquid master test kit
Liquid tests read ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and pH far better than strips.
Check price on AmazonCichlid staple pellets
A balanced daily food. Sinking pellets reach shy fish too.
Check price on AmazonLarge cichlid pellets
Big bites for big mouths, with less mess than frozen foods.
Check price on Amazon
Spirulina cichlid food
A veggie heavy diet helps prevent bloat in Malawi rock dwellers.
Check price on Amazon
Holey limestone rock
Lots of caves and it gently buffers hardness for Malawi and Tanganyika fish.
Check price on AmazonLED aquarium light
Look for a dimmer and timer so fish get a steady day and night.
Check price on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. It never changes your price. Read our disclosure.