Shop South American Cichlids for Your Freshwater Aquarium
Looking for South American cichlids for sale? Tropical Treasures Wyo offers a curated selection of healthy, hand-selected South American cichlids — including Angelfish, Discus, German Blue Rams, Apistogramma, Oscars, Severums, and Jack Dempseys — bringing intelligence, color, and personality to your freshwater aquarium.
South American cichlids are some of the most fascinating fish in the hobby. Originating from the rivers, flooded forests, and blackwater systems of the Amazon basin, these fish display vivid colors, complex behavior, and a level of intelligence rarely seen in other freshwater species. They recognize their keepers, exhibit clear personalities, and create dynamic aquarium displays.
All of our South American cichlids are carefully acclimated, monitored, and shipped with a live arrival guarantee.
South American Cichlids • Angelfish • Discus • German Blue Rams • Apistogramma • Oscars • Freshwater Fish for Sale
🐠 Popular South American Cichlid Varieties
- ✔ Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) – Tall, graceful, and elegant — a classic centerpiece fish for tall planted aquariums
- ✔ Discus (Symphysodon) – The "king of the aquarium" — round, vibrant, and prized for stunning color morphs
- ✔ German Blue Rams (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) – Small, intensely colorful dwarf cichlids perfect for community tanks
- ✔ Apistogramma – Bold dwarf cichlids with strong personalities, ideal for blackwater and planted setups
- ✔ Oscars (Astronotus ocellatus) – Large, intelligent, interactive cichlids known for their dog-like behavior
- ✔ Severums – Peaceful, large-bodied cichlids with gorgeous gold and red color forms
- ✔ Jack Dempseys – Bold, territorial cichlids with stunning blue and gold speckling
🌿 Perfect for Planted and Biotope Tanks
South American cichlids shine in warm, slightly acidic water with driftwood, leaf litter, and lush planting. Many species (Angelfish, Rams, Apistos) thrive in well-planted community setups, while larger cichlids (Oscars, Severums) prefer roomier tanks with sturdy decor.
Pair them with our live aquarium plants, aquarium substrate, and natural decor for a biotope-inspired display. Add peaceful tankmates like tetras, corydoras catfish, and otocinclus for a balanced community.
⭐ Why Choose South American Cichlids?
🎨 Stunning colors and patterns across every species
🧠 Intelligent and interactive — many recognize their owners
🐠 Wide variety from 1.5" dwarf rams to 14" oscars
🏆 Ideal centerpiece fish for display aquariums
🌱 Many species thrive in planted, blackwater, and biotope setups
⚠️ Important Compatibility Info
South American cichlids range from peaceful dwarfs to territorial giants — compatibility depends entirely on species:
- Avoid mixing with African cichlids (different water needs and temperaments)
- Larger species (Oscars, Jack Dempseys) need their own tank or large compatible setups
- Dwarf species (Rams, Apistos) thrive in peaceful community tanks
- Watch for fin-nipping with Angelfish and small tetra species
🛠 Tank Setup Tips
- ✔ Soft to moderately hard water, pH 6.0–7.5 (varies by species)
- ✔ Warm temperatures (76–84°F — higher for Discus)
- ✔ Driftwood, leaf litter, and gentle filtration mimic natural blackwater habitats
- ✔ Sand or fine-gravel substrate is ideal
- ✔ Strong filtration for larger cichlids; gentle flow for dwarf species
- ✔ Tank size: 20+ gallons for dwarfs, 75+ gallons for Oscars and Severums
🍽 Recommended Food
- ✔ High-quality cichlid pellets and sinking wafers
- ✔ Frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blackworms
- ✔ Color-enhancing foods for vibrant adult coloration
- ✔ Vegetable matter for omnivorous species (Severums)
👉 Explore our aquarium fish food collection for cichlid-friendly diets.
📍 Shop Local or Online
Available online and in-store at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
- ✔ Live fish shipping available
- ✔ In-store pickup
- ✔ Healthy, hand-selected South American cichlids
- ✔ Live arrival guarantee
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions
Are South American cichlids aggressive?
It varies widely. Dwarf species like German Blue Rams and Apistogramma are peaceful and great for community tanks. Larger species like Oscars and Jack Dempseys are territorial and should be kept with compatible tankmates or in species-only setups.
Can South American cichlids live with African cichlids?
No. They require very different water chemistry — South Americans prefer soft, acidic water, while Africans need hard, alkaline water. Mixing them stresses both groups.
What size tank do South American cichlids need?
It depends on species. Dwarf cichlids (Rams, Apistos) thrive in 20+ gallons. Angelfish and Severums need 55+ gallons. Oscars and other large cichlids require 75+ gallons minimum.
Are South American cichlids good for beginners?
Yes — German Blue Rams, Apistogramma, and Angelfish are excellent beginner cichlids. Discus and wild-type species are best for intermediate to advanced aquarists.
Do South American cichlids need a heater?
Yes. Most South American cichlids require stable tropical temperatures (76–84°F). Browse our aquarium heaters collection for reliable options.
