Xtreme Cichlid PeeWee 1.5 mm Pellets

Xtreme Cichlid PeeWee Pellets are a 1.5 mm slow sinking food for cichlids, sold in a 20oz container (model 2217-E). They are made in the USA by Xtreme Aquatic Foods.

Protein blend

The recipe combines krill, shrimp, squid and green peas. Xtreme describes it as giving a balanced amino acid profile. The peas add some plant matter, which suits omnivorous cichlids, while the marine proteins appeal to carnivorous species.

Why 1.5 mm

Small pellets suit dwarf cichlids, juveniles and small African species such as many shell dwellers and smaller mbuna. Larger cichlids will also eat them, though big adults usually prefer bigger pellets. Slow sinking lets fish feed throughout the water column and encourages natural foraging.

Added nutrition

The pellets include a vitamin pack and USA farm-grown spirulina, and Xtreme states no hormones are added.

Feeding tips

• Feed once or twice a day.
• Offer what your cichlids eat in a couple of minutes.
• Scatter pellets widely in busy tanks to limit chasing.
• Siphon pellets that settle into rockwork or sand.

Bulk size

The 20oz container suits larger collections or several tanks. For a single small tank, decant a few weeks’ worth into a smaller jar and keep the main container sealed, cool and dry.

Compare

For larger fish, the Aqueon Cichlid medium pellets are about 3mm. For an insect-based option, see Fluval Bug Bites Cichlid.

Who it suits

Keepers of dwarf, juvenile or mixed-size cichlid groups who want one small pellet everyone can eat. Herbivorous mbuna still need a vegetable-based main diet, with these pellets as part of a rotation rather than the only food.

Small pellets are also handy for conditioning breeding pairs, since you can feed little and often without overloading the tank. Increase meals slightly before spawning and keep water changes regular while you do.