Care guide, husbandry, breeding, disease, and sourcing intelligence on Auratus Cichlid - written by the Fast Aquatics editorial team.
Auratus Cichlid at a glance
Adult size: 4.5 inches · Min tank/pond: 55 gallons · Difficulty: intermediate · Diet: omnivore · Lifespan: 5-10 years.
Auratus Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus) is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium and pond hobby. Suitable for keepers with 6-12 months of stable-tank experience.
Where Auratus Cichlid comes from
Auratus Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus) is native to specific tropical and subtropical freshwater systems. Captive-bred specimens at most LFS come from generations of farmed stock and are generally hardier and more colorful than wild-caught equivalents.
Auratus Cichlid tank size and setup
Auratus Cichlid requires a minimum of 55 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on 4.5 inches adult size and territorial range. Plan a tank sized for adult footprint, HOB or canister filter rated 4-6x volume, dechlorinated water, appropriate temperature heater, and stocking-appropriate hardscape.
Water parameters for Auratus Cichlid
Auratus Cichlid prefers freshwater parameters: temperature 74-80°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-12 dGH, KH 3-8 dKH, ammonia + nitrite 0 ppm, nitrate under 20 ppm. Use dechlorinator on every water change.
What Auratus Cichlid eats
Auratus Cichlid is a omnivore. Provide a varied diet of pellets, frozen foods, and supplemental greens. Feed twice daily in small portions. Browse our food guides for product recommendations.
Auratus Cichlid tankmates and compatibility
Auratus Cichlid works in community tanks with peaceful species in similar size class. Avoid mixing aggressive with passive species.
Auratus Cichlid adult size and lifespan
Auratus Cichlid reaches 4.5 inches at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 5-10 years with proper care.
Can you breed Auratus Cichlid?
Auratus Cichlid can be bred in dedicated breeding tanks with appropriate setup and water-chemistry triggers. Research the species-specific breeding requirements before attempting.
Common Auratus Cichlid diseases and problems
Auratus Cichlid is susceptible to standard freshwater diseases (ich, columnaris, fin rot, bacterial infections). Quarantine new Auratus Cichlid for 4 weeks before adding to display.
Where to buy Auratus Cichlid online
Auratus Cichlid is sold at LFS, online retailers, and direct from breeders. Browse live Auratus Cichlid from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked overnight shipping, climate-aware hold logic, and a 4-hour DOA window with photo-evidence claims.
Related freshwater species you might also keep
Other species in the same category with care profiles on Fast Aquatics. Click any name for the full husbandry breakdown.
Auratus Cichlid taxonomy and care recommendations cross-checked against the following authoritative references and our internal vendor + breeder database.