Tetra Cichlid Sticks, 1 l is a staple stick food for all cichlids and other large ornamental fish with the BioActive formula from the German brand Tetra. The sticks float on the surface and resemble large fish's natural food. According to the manufacturer, the recipe meets cichlids' needs for protein and specific amino acids, enhances natural colour and vitality and boosts disease resistance. The 1-litre tub is designed for large tanks and long-term use.
What to feed cichlids
Cichlids are very diverse, including predatory, omnivorous and herbivorous species. Most popular aquarium cichlids — acaras, oscars, cichlasomas, parrot cichlids — happily eat high-protein floating food. Sticks are handy because they don't sink straight away: fish take them from the surface, and leftovers are easy to spot and remove. Herbivorous African cichlids such as Malawi mbuna need more plant matter in their diet. More in aquarium fish food: how to feed.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | floating sticks |
| For | cichlids and large ornamental fish |
| Protein / fat | 46% / 8% |
| Fibre / moisture | 2% / 6% |
| Vitamins A / D3 | 30,480 / 1900 IU/kg |
| Formula | BioActive |
| Volume | 1 l |
| Brand | Tetra, Germany |
Ingredients
Fish and fish by-products, vegetable by-products, vegetable protein extracts, yeast, cereals, oils and fats, minerals and algae. Vitamins A and D3, manganese, zinc, iron, bentonite as a binder, colourings and antioxidants are added. Fish-based ingredients first provide animal protein, while plant ingredients and algae support digestion.
Pros
- Made for cichlids. Meets their protein needs.
- Floating sticks. Leftovers are easy to spot and remove.
- 46% protein. A complete staple food.
- For vivid colour. According to the manufacturer.
- A 1 l tub. Lasts a long time even in a big tank.
- For large fish. Not just cichlids.
Cons
- Not for small fish. The sticks are large.
- Too little greenery for herbivorous cichlids. Mbuna need a spirulina food.
- Contains colourings. As listed by the manufacturer.
- A large volume. A small tank will take ages to use 1 l, and the vitamins will degrade.
How to feed
Feed once or twice a day in portions eaten within 2–3 minutes. Cichlids tend to overeat and beg for food, so don't give in — overfeeding spoils water and harms fish health. Net out uneaten sticks. Have a fasting day once a week. For variety, occasionally offer granules such as TetraRubin for colour.
Water in a cichlid tank
Large cichlids produce a lot of waste, so they need a powerful filter and regular water changes of 20–30% weekly. Monitor water parameters and use conditioners when preparing water, such as Rikka Aqua Balance. If the water clouds, products like JBL Clynol can help.
Cichlids and discus
Discus are cichlids too, but very demanding about water and food. A specialised soft granule such as Tetra Discus suits them better. Cichlid Sticks are designed for hardier large cichlids.
Storage
Keep the tub tightly closed somewhere cool and dry. To preserve vitamins, decant a small amount into a little container for daily feeding and open the main tub less often.
Who it suits
Owners of aquariums with cichlids — acaras, oscars, cichlasomas, parrot cichlids — and other large ornamental fish. More foods are in the fish food section.
Verdict
Tetra Cichlid Sticks is a floating stick staple food for cichlids and large fish with 46% protein and the BioActive formula. Convenient in a big tank: fish take it from the surface, leftovers are easy to remove, and the 1 l tub lasts a long time. The downsides are that the sticks don't suit small fish, and herbivorous cichlids need a food with more greens.
FAQ
Do the sticks sink?
No, they float on the surface.
Which fish is it for?
All cichlids and other large ornamental fish.
How many times a day?
Once or twice, in portions eaten within 2–3 minutes.
How much protein?
46%.
Is it suitable for discus?
Discus are better off with a specialised food.
Is it suitable for small fish?
No, the sticks are too big for them.
Can oscars have it?
Yes, the sticks suit large cichlids, including oscars.
What's the tub size?
1 l.
