Shop African cichlids for sale online at Live Fish Store. African cichlids from Lakes Malawi, Tanganyika, and Victoria are among the most colorful freshwater fish in the hobby, with mbuna, peacocks, haps, and Tanganyikan species in blues, yellows, oranges, and reds that rival saltwater fish. Each cichlid is packed with care and shipped overnight with a live arrival guarantee.
Why buy African cichlids from Live Fish Store
- Vibrant, healthy fish: we ship active, well-colored cichlids that are eating and ready for your tank.
- Overnight shipping: live fish ship via FedEx Priority Overnight or UPS Next Day Air.
- Live arrival guarantee: report any DOA within 2 hours of delivery for store credit or a replacement.
- Free shipping on $80+: qualifying aquatic-life orders of $80 or more ship free with standard shipping.
Choosing the right African cichlids for your tank
Most Malawi and Victorian cichlids need a 55 gallon or larger aquarium, while small Tanganyikan shell dwellers can be kept in 20 gallons. All of them want hard, alkaline water, typically a pH of 7.8 to 8.6, at 76 to 82°F, with plenty of rockwork for territories and hiding places. Strong filtration and regular water changes are important because these fish are usually kept in busy groups.
African cichlids are territorial and often aggressive, so keep them with other African cichlids of similar size rather than with soft-water community fish; stocking a tank a little heavily helps spread aggression. Diet matters: mbuna are largely herbivores that thrive on spirulina-based foods, while peacocks and haps take more protein from quality cichlid pellets and frozen foods.
Shipping and live arrival guarantee
African cichlids are bagged with oxygen, insulated, and shipped overnight within the USA. Every fish is covered by our live arrival guarantee: contact us within 2 hours of delivery about any DOA and we will issue store credit or send a replacement.
Frequently asked questions
Can African cichlids live with other fish?
They do best with other African cichlids and hardy Synodontis catfish. Most community fish are too peaceful and prefer softer water.
What tank size do African cichlids need?
Plan on 55 gallons or more for mbuna, peacocks, and haps; small shell-dwelling Tanganyikans can live in 20 gallon tanks.
Are African cichlids good for beginners?
Yes, if you can provide a large tank with hard water and stock thoughtfully. They are hardy, eat readily, and show tremendous color.
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