Assorted African Cichlids

Description: Colorful and territorial, cichlids are some of the most colorful fish in the hobby with big personalities! Cichlids are a favorite with fish hobbyists for the wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and behaviors within this category. They are often more boisterous than community fish and their larger size makes it easier to find your new fish friends in the tank! Learn everything you need to know about caring for your cichlid in our Complete Cichlid Care Guide!

Species: Assorted African Cichlids

Normal Pet Size at Maturity: up to 6 inches

Average Lifespan: 5 to 10 years, potentially longer in ideal conditions

Basic Diet: Cichlid pellets, bloodworms, and mysis shrimp are favorites for these cichlids. Want to learn more? Check out our Aquatic Pet Feeding Guide !

Habitat Necessities: This fish will thrive with natural sand, stacked slate and other natural rocks with enough room for swimming. Learn more in the Setting Up a Cichlid Aquarium section of our care guide!

Does this Pet Need a Roommate? Roomies are optional! These cichlids do well kept with cichlids with similar behavior and diets. Not sure which species get along? Our Fish Compatibility Guide can help you choose compatible tank mates.

Minimum Enclosure Size: 50+ gallons minimum

Safety Tips for You and Your Pet: It is recommended to closely monitor any new pet for 30 days in their own enclosure to observe signs of illness, prevent the spread of potential diseases, and to limit stress while your pet acclimates to their new home. All new pets should be seen by a veterinarian within 14 days of purchase to establish care and discuss a health and wellness plan. All animals can potentially carry viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases contagious to humans. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water before and after contact with any pet or its habitat. Adults should assist children with hand washing after contact with a pet or its enclosure. Use caution when handling pets, and remember they may bite or scratch, especially when stressed.

When to Contact a Veterinarian: Contact an aquatic veterinarian if you notice the following signs:

• Unusual swimming pattern
  
• Thinness or decreased appetite
  
• Abdominal swelling
  
• Inflamed or discolored skin/fins
  
• Fins clamped to sides of body
  
• Scraping body on rocks (flashing)
• Visible signs of illness or recent fish loss.

If your fish show any of the signs above, we recommend using the "Find a Fish Vet" tool at fishvets.org or wavma.org to locate a qualified aquatic veterinarian in your area.

Vet Assured: Pets purchased at PetSmart are part of our exclusive Vet Assured program, designed by PetSmart veterinarians to help improve the health and well-being of our pets. Our vendors meet a high standard in caring for pets and screening them for common illnesses, including Zoonotic diseases. This program also includes specific standards for in-store pet care.

The PetSmart Promise: If your pet becomes ill during the initial 14-day period, or if you're not satisfied for any reason, PetSmart will gladly replace the pet or refund the purchase price.