What size tank do rainbow cichlids need?
At least 30 gallons (114 liters) for a pair. The smallest standard tank that works is the 30 gallon breeder. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a pair, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Herotilapia multispinosa.
How many rainbow cichlids in each tank size?
This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if rainbow cichlids are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.
| Tank | How many rainbow cichlids |
|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small |
| 10 gallon | Too small |
| 20 gallon long | Too small |
| 29 gallon | Too small |
| 40 gallon breeder | 2 |
| 55 gallon | 2 |
| 75 gallon | up to 4 |
| 125 gallon | up to 7 |
Check rainbow cichlids against your own tank and other fish
Good to know
- Best kept as a pair. A pair will claim a patch of the tank floor and defend it, most of all when they have eggs.
Tank mates for rainbow cichlids
These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.
Poor matches
- Neon tetra: Rainbow cichlid (about 7 in) can eat neon tetra (about 1.4 in).
- Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
- Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as rainbow cichlid.
Questions and answers
What size tank do rainbow cichlids need?
At least 30 gallons (114 liters) for a pair. The smallest standard tank that works is the 30 gallon breeder. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.
How many rainbow cichlids should be kept together?
At least 2. Rainbow cichlids are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.
Can rainbow cichlids live in a 10 gallon tank?
No. Rainbow cichlid needs at least 30 gallons (114 liters), and grows to 7 in (17 cm), far too long for a 20 inch tank.
What temperature do rainbow cichlids need?
72–82 °F (22–28 °C), with a pH of 7–8. In most homes that means a heater.
Can rainbow cichlids live with a betta?
Usually, yes, in a tank of 30 gallons (114 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–82 °F (24–28 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.
More fish
Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.