what cichlids are most suitable in a community tank?

Answer 1

Chosen carefully there actually are some cichlid that people do use in community tanks.

Rams are mildly territorial, but not very aggressive. If you have at least a 20 gallon tank then they can be considered.

Keyholes are as mild as cichlids come and would be an excellent choice if you have tank of 30 or more, because they get to a larger size then the Rams.

Angel fish are probably the most popular cichlid to be kept in a community tank, and many don't even realize they're keeping cichlids. They would need at least 30 gallons, and preferably larger.

Apistogramma are nice fish, small and beautiful and not too aggressive, though more so then Rams. If you have at least a 20 gallon tank it could work.

Severums are a pretty docile fish as well, and if you have a tank of 60 gallons or more then this becomes a valid option, though because of their size you can't keep small community fish with them.

Hybrid Parrot cichlid types also tend to keep to themselves, and are another option for a 60 gallon or larger tank with appropriate community fish.

Whichever you choose, it's important to first decide what cichlid you are interested in, do some research on their territorial and breeding behavior and how to stock them properly, and then choose community fish based on suitablity with the cichlid you have chosen.

Answer 2

Unless your "community" tank is at least 50 gallons, I would NOT recommend introducing any cichlids. They are all territorial, even when not truly aggressive, and it really interferes with the regular daily life of more neutral species.

Answer 3

the most 'friendly' of all the cichlids are the new world and american cichlids( they're also the prettiest).. SOME south africans, too.

Answer 4

most cichlid are too aggressive to be kept with non aggressive community fish. you'll end up losing fish, or having damaged/stressed fish.

Answer 5

Angel fish and parrot fish are some chichlids that will do better than the african chiclids