Cichlids are some of the most beautiful fish in the world, but they can also be the most aggressive. Keep reading to learn about the best and worst cichlids for your community tank.
Cichlids are famous for their bright colors and fascinating behavior, but many aquarists assume they can’t be kept in community aquariums. While it’s true that many cichlids are aggressive or territorial, there are several species that make excellent community fish when housed properly. In this guide, we’ll cover the best cichlids for community tanks, along with compatibility advice and care tips to help you create a harmonious aquarium.
Why Cichlids Can Be Challenging
Cichlids are intelligent, territorial fish. They often stake out sections of the tank and defend them against intruders. However, not all species are overly aggressive. With the right choices, you can enjoy cichlids in a peaceful community.
Territoriality: Many cichlids defend breeding areas, but some species remain calm if given space.
Size differences: Large cichlids may see small tankmates as food.
Water preferences: African and South American cichlids thrive in different water parameters.
Top Cichlids for Community Tanks
Here are some of the most reliable and peaceful cichlids to keep with other freshwater fish:
Bolivian Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus): A peaceful South American dwarf cichlid. Hardy, colorful, and calm with other community fish. Suitable for tanks 20 gallons and larger.
German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi): Brilliantly colored but more sensitive than Bolivians. Best kept in well-maintained tanks with stable water quality.
Kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher): A West African dwarf cichlid with beautiful coloration. Peaceful most of the time but may become territorial during breeding. Great for planted community tanks.
Keyhole Cichlid (Cleithracara maronii): Shy, gentle, and peaceful. They get along with most tankmates and are perfect for aquarists who want a low-stress cichlid.
Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare): A larger option that can work in community tanks of 30+ gallons. Best with mid-sized tankmates like tetras and rasboras—avoid very small fish that may be eaten.
Apistogramma (various species): Small, colorful dwarf cichlids that thrive in planted tanks. Provide caves and hiding spots to reduce territorial disputes.
Cichlids to Avoid in Community Tanks
Some cichlids are best left out of peaceful communities due to their size or aggression:
Oscars: Grow very large, messy eaters, and aggressive toward tankmates.
Jack Dempseys: Highly territorial and aggressive.
African Mbuna (Lake Malawi): Extremely aggressive and require species-specific setups.
Convict Cichlids: Known for aggressive breeding behavior, even in large tanks.
Compatibility & Tankmate Suggestions
Peaceful cichlids can be excellent tankmates when paired with the right species. Here are some guidelines:
Tank size: Provide enough space—20 gallons minimum for dwarf cichlids, 30+ for Angelfish.
Schooling fish: Mid-water species like tetras, rasboras, and hatchetfish make great companions.
Bottom dwellers: Corydoras catfish and peaceful loaches coexist well with dwarf cichlids.
Avoid fin-nippers: Barbs and aggressive livebearers may harass Angelfish or Rams.
Tank Setup Tips
Creating the right environment is crucial for keeping cichlids calm in a community setting.
Décor: Add caves, driftwood, and plants to break up sightlines and reduce aggression.
Substrate: Fine sand is best for digging species like Rams and Apistos.
Water parameters: Keep South American species (Rams, Apistos, Angelfish) in soft, slightly acidic water. Kribensis and Keyholes tolerate a wider range.
Stocking order: Add peaceful schooling fish first, then introduce cichlids last to prevent territorial dominance.
Feeding Peaceful Cichlids
Most community-friendly cichlids are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet:
High-quality flakes or pellets as a staple.
Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms for enrichment.
Vegetable matter (spirulina flakes, blanched spinach) for Kribensis and Keyholes.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Adding aggressive cichlids like Convicts or Oscars to community tanks.
Keeping Angelfish with very small tetras that may be eaten.
Not providing caves or hiding spaces—leads to territorial aggression.
Mixing African and South American cichlids with incompatible water needs.
Key Takeaway & Next Steps
Cichlids can absolutely thrive in community tanks when you choose peaceful species like Bolivian Rams, Kribensis, and Keyholes. With proper tank size, hiding spots, and compatible tankmates, these cichlids add color, behavior, and personality without disrupting community harmony. Ready to expand your community even more? Check out our guide on top freshwater aquarium fish for more stocking inspiration.
The fish you choose to stock your tank is not a decision that should be made lightly. The articles in this category will help you understand the basics of fish compatibility and will provide you with other information you need to make an informed decision when stocking your tank.
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