The 10 Best Peaceful Cichlids for Community Tanks in 2027

Seriously Fish describes the dwarf flag cichlid as an established aquarium favorite from the lower Amazon basin in Brazil, also called the smiling acara. It stays at 50 mm SL, is rated Beginner, and does well at 20-28 C. Seriously Fish lists it as best in a pair and fine with others, but records no tank size for it.

Seriously Fish says Borelli's dwarf cichlid, also known as the umbrella or yellow dwarf cichlid, comes from southern Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and Uruguay. A base of 45 x 30 cm is acceptable for a single pair, and the male reaches 65 mm SL. Captive-raised fish are the recommended choice for the community aquarium.

Seriously Fish calls the golden dwarf cichlid hardy, easy to breed and an excellent beginner's cichlid, and describes it as a very peaceful dwarf that can live with most other peaceful fish. It reaches 76 mm SL and wants a well-planted tank with wood for cover. Most fish in the trade are farm-raised.

Seriously Fish calls the African butterfly cichlid from Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia peaceful, undemanding and one of the best choices for a newcomer to dwarf cichlids. It reaches 80 mm SL, suits a base of 80 x 30 cm, and is best in a small group. It is shy and territorial only when spawning.

Seriously Fish calls the kribensis hardy and recommended for the general community tank. It reaches 100 mm SL, takes most foods, and a base of 24 x 15 x 12 in suits a single pair. It becomes very territorial when breeding and is generally a shy and retiring fish, so it should not share a tank with very vigorous species.

Seriously Fish says captive-raised cockatoo cichlids suit a community aquarium, while wild fish are best kept alone or with small dither fish. The male reaches 75 mm SL and a base of 60 x 30 cm is acceptable for a pair. It is rated Moderate and needs acidic water kept steady.

Seriously Fish describes Agassiz's dwarf cichlid as a peaceful dwarf from the Amazon basin that suits the community aquarium when captive-raised. It reaches 75 mm SL for males and is rated Moderate because it needs a well-established tank and stable water. It prefers fairly dim lighting and shady spots.

Seriously Fish says the keyhole cichlid, named for the keyhole-shaped marking on each side, is shy, not aggressive unless breeding, and sensitive to deteriorating water. It reaches 110 mm SL and needs a base of 90 x 30 cm. Groups of open-water characids help, and when it senses danger it darkens and hides.

Seriously Fish says the ram cichlid, a dwarf from Venezuela and Colombia, reaches 40 mm SL and needs 27-30 C and pristine water. It is sold for community tanks but not recommended for the general community aquarium because it is a poor competitor. Calm open-water fish help reduce its shyness.

Seriously Fish says the Bolivian ram from Bolivia and Brazil reaches 80 mm SL, is less colorful than the ram cichlid, and is arguably a better choice for less-experienced aquarists. It needs a soft, sandy substrate, pristine water, and a base of at least 90 x 45 cm. It is not recommended for the general community aquarium.