Tetra Cichlid Algae Mini, 10 L (3.9 kg) is a complete food in small pellets for all kinds of small cichlids from the German brand Tetra. With spirulina algae (2%), it's especially suited to omnivorous and herbivorous cichlids; according to the manufacturer, spirulina brings out bright colours and adds vitality. High-quality protein and other nutrients meet the needs of different cichlid species, and the BioActive formula supports health and longevity. The small pellet size suits smaller fish.
Who needs food with algae
Many cichlids from Lakes Malawi and Tanganyika graze algae off rocks in the wild. In an aquarium they need food with plant ingredients, as too much animal protein can cause gut problems in herbivores. Algae-based food also works as a staple for omnivorous cichlids. On feeding fish, see how to feed aquarium fish.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | staple food, mini pellets |
| For | small omnivorous and herbivorous cichlids |
| Spirulina | 2% |
| Protein / fat | 43% / 5% |
| Fibre | 2% |
| Volume / weight | 10 L / 3.9 kg |
| Brand | Tetra, Germany |
Pros
- Spirulina. A plant component for cichlids.
- Small pellets. For small fish.
- High protein. 43%.
- BioActive. Health support.
- A big pack. 10 L for shops, clubs and large tanks.
- Complete food. Suitable as a staple.
Cons
- 10 L is a lot for home use. The food may go stale before it's finished.
- Cereals come first. Then plant protein and fish.
- Only 2% spirulina. Herbivores benefit from added vegetables.
- Contains colourants and preservatives.
Ingredients and analysis
Cereals, vegetable protein extracts, fish and fish by-products, yeasts, molluscs and crustaceans, algae (spirulina 2%), oils and fats, minerals. Crude protein 43%, fat 5%, fibre 2%, moisture 8%. Additives: vitamin D3 1890 IU/kg, manganese 100 mg/kg, zinc 63 mg/kg, iron 41 mg/kg, colourants, preservatives and antioxidants.
How to feed
Feed as much as the fish eat in 2–3 minutes, 2–3 times a day. Make sure every fish gets some, not just the boldest. Don't overfeed: leftovers foul the water. One or two fasting days a week are beneficial. Herbivorous cichlids can also have blanched lettuce or spinach.
Colour and health
A cichlid's colour depends not only on food but also on water quality, lighting, stress and tank mates. Spirulina and complete nutrition help fish look their best, but without regular water changes and proper care, food alone won't do it. Monitor water parameters and don't overstock — cichlids are territorial.
Storing a big pack
Fish food gradually loses vitamins once opened. If you have one or two tanks, decant a small portion into a jar for daily use and keep the bucket tightly sealed somewhere cool and dry. The large size makes sense for shops, clubs and owners of big tanks with many cichlids.
Compared with other Tetra foods
For large cichlids there's Tetra Cichlid Sticks, for discus Tetra Discus, and for a community tank TetraMin. All foods are in the fish food section.
Who it suits
Owners of tanks with small omnivorous and herbivorous cichlids — Malawi mbuna, Julidochromis, Apistogramma and others — and pet shops and clubs needing food in bulk. Beginners may find aquarium for beginners: what to buy useful.
Verdict
Tetra Cichlid Algae Mini is a complete mini-pellet food with spirulina for small omnivorous and herbivorous cichlids: 43% protein, the BioActive formula and a large, economical 10 L pack. The downsides are cereals listed first, only 2% spirulina, and a pack that's too big for a single home tank.
FAQ
Which fish is this food for?
Small cichlids, especially omnivores and herbivores.
How much protein?
43%.
How much does the pack weigh?
10 L, or 3.9 kg.
Does it contain spirulina?
Yes, 2%.
What form is the food?
Small pellets.
How much should I feed?
As much as the fish eat in 2–3 minutes, 2–3 times a day.
Is it suitable for large cichlids?
The pellets are small — Tetra Cichlid Sticks suit larger fish better.
