TetraCichlid Floating Cichlid Sticks

TetraCichlid Floating Cichlid Sticks are a staple food for top- and mid-water cichlids, in an 11.3 oz container (model 16350). The stick format suits medium and large cichlids that are too big for flakes.

Why sticks

Large cichlids such as oscars, severums, Jack Dempseys and larger Central Americans take food in big gulps. Sticks are substantial enough to be worth chasing, and because they float, you can watch exactly how much each fish eats. Uneaten sticks are easy to net out before they sink and break down.

Nutrition

Tetra describes the sticks as protein-rich and nutritionally balanced for health, color and vitality. The ProCare formula is intended to support the immune system, and biotin helps maintain a healthy metabolism.

Clear water

The clear-water formula will not cloud water when used as directed. Big cichlids produce a lot of waste, so careful portions and strong filtration both matter.

Feeding tips

• Feed once or twice a day.
• Count sticks so you know how much each meal contains.
• Remove leftovers after a few minutes.
• Rotate with pellets or frozen foods for variety.

Compare

For smaller or juvenile cichlids, TetraCichlid Large Flakes or Tetra Cichlid Crisps are a better fit. For a premium pellet staple, see Hikari Cichlid Gold.

Who it suits

Keepers of larger top- and mid-water cichlids who want a simple floating staple that makes portions easy to see. Bottom-oriented species may not rise for floating sticks; offer a sinking pellet to them instead.

Seal the container after each feeding and keep it out of humid spots near the tank. Sticks that go soft or smell off should be replaced. An 11.3 oz tub suits a single large tank for several weeks, depending on stocking.

Large cichlids learn quickly and will beg at the glass whenever you walk past. Stick to a set number of sticks per meal rather than feeding to their enthusiasm, since overfeeding is the most common cause of poor water in big cichlid tanks.