What size tank does a African Cichlid (Mbuna) need?

African Cichlid (Mbuna) needs a minimum of 55 gallons, with 75 gallons recommended. They are middle swimmers.

Is African Cichlid (Mbuna) good for beginners?

African Cichlid (Mbuna) is rated "intermediate" difficulty (3/5). Suitable for intermediate fishkeepers.

What fish are compatible with African Cichlid (Mbuna)?

African Cichlid (Mbuna) is aggressive but may nip fins. Compatible tank mates include other aggressive fish with similar water parameters (pH 7.5-8.8, temp 76-82°F). Give adequate territory space.

African Cichlid (Mbuna)

Pseudotropheus sp.

Family: Cichlidae • Origin: Africa

African Mbuna cichlids are intensely colorful and fiercely territorial. Keep in overstocked, all-male groups with lots of rock to break line of sight.

Min Tank

55 gal

Max Size

Temperature

76-82°F

7.5-8.8

Lifespan

8 years

School Size

Solo OK

Swim Level

middle

Hardness

15-30 dGH

aggressiveintermediateherbivorefin-nipper ⚠️

Is African Cichlid (Mbuna) Right for Your Tank?

African Cichlid (Mbuna) is a moderate-care fish rated "intermediate" (3/5). Suitable for hobbyists with some experience who can maintain stable water parameters. They need at least 55 gallons — a mid-size tank commitment. Plan your space accordingly.

African Cichlid (Mbuna) is aggressive and best kept alone or with other robust species that can hold their own. Not suitable for peaceful community tanks. Warning: known fin-nipper. Avoid keeping with long-finned species like bettas, angelfish, or fancy guppies. They are territorial — provide adequate hiding spots and maintain enough space to reduce aggression. Expected lifespan: 8 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with African Cichlid (Mbuna)

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Relying on a heater without a thermometer

African Cichlid (Mbuna) needs 76–82°F. Heaters malfunction or drift over time — always use a separate thermometer to verify. Temperature swings of even 3–4°F can trigger stress and disease, particularly ich.

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Putting them in a tank under 55 gallons

Many beginners underestimate tank size needs. African Cichlid (Mbuna) requires at least 55 gallons — ideally 75. Cramped tanks lead to stunted growth, aggression, and poor water quality.

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Housing with peaceful nano fish

African Cichlid (Mbuna) is aggressive and territorial — small, peaceful species like neon tetras, endlers, or celestial pearl danios will be stressed, bullied, or eaten. Choose tank mates that can hold their own.

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Pairing with bettas, angelfish, or fancy guppies

African Cichlid (Mbuna) is a known fin-nipper. Long-finned fish are irresistible targets — their flowing fins trigger nipping behavior that causes stress, infection, and fin rot in the victim.