CaribSea African Cichlid Mix - White

The easy way to give African cichlids the water they need. CaribSea African Cichlid Mix is an aragonite-based substrate formulated for African Rift Lake cichlids. Unlike inert sands, it naturally buffers your water toward the high pH and hardness of Lakes Malawi and Tanganyika, and it keeps buffering for the life of the aquarium, resisting the downward pH drift common in crowded cichlid tanks. This is the white color. Stock it with your favorite cichlids.

Why African Cichlid Mix

• Aragonite substrate that buffers toward the high pH and hardness African cichlids need
• Keeps buffering for the life of the tank, resisting pH drift in crowded systems
• Simplifies matching Rift Lake water conditions without constant dosing
• Natural white coloration that shows off vivid cichlids
• Includes a dose of beneficial bacteria to help start your cycle

How to Use

• Add about 1 to 2 inches, or more if your cichlids like to dig and sift
• Rinse before adding to reduce initial cloudiness
• Pour water gently onto a plate to keep the bed in place
• Ideal for Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika cichlid setups

Specifications

Pair It With

• Rift Lake rockwork and caves for territories and breeding sites
• Browse more freshwater supplies

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it change my water chemistry?
Yes, intentionally. It buffers your pH and hardness upward toward Rift Lake conditions, which is exactly what African cichlids need.

Which cichlids is it for?
African Rift Lake cichlids, such as Malawi mbuna and peacocks and Tanganyikan species.

Do I need to rinse it?
Yes, a good rinse before adding helps reduce the initial cloudiness common to all substrates.

White or Sahara Sand?
It comes down to the look you want. Both buffer your water the same way; only the color differs.