The Cichlid Shack

"I've ordered from the Cichlid Shack a few times now and wanted to share my experiences and what I think about the quality of the fish. I should start by saying I have multiple large (135 gallon) male peacock/hap tanks and an XL (220 gallon) male predator cichlid tank. To me, quality is the most important aspect. I'm looking for very high quality fish as I usually only have one of each species per tank, doubles of a few of my favorites. I will say that I usually order the F1's or best available largest cichlids. Of the fish I've ordered, they have always been TOP NOTCH! I've tested the waters with about 10 other highly reputable fish stores online, but I have quickly learned that this is my go-to place. Their Bucco Noto's are by far the best quality I've ever seen and are a must buy for any hobbyist that can accommodate the size. Their F1 Malawi Gars are better than the two wild caught I got from other shops. Their Protomelas Labriden is superb and one of my favorite fish. Also got a Malawi Barracuda from them and it's very impressive as well. Also picked up a Strigatus, Compressiceps, and Bucco Yellow Leptura that arrived and turned out super nice as well! I have had issues with a couple fish arriving in rough shape and/or die withing a few days. As long as you communicate with them the issues you are experiencing, they will give you a credit for the fish. I was always made whole. I saw a review saying they send you diseased fish, that's comical. Fish may be under stress due to shipping, but I have not experienced any instances where the fish I received are in any way diseased. If they were, I would have let them know what I thought and sent pics/videos evidence of what was going on and they would acknowledge and issue a refund. If you want instant answers to your questions and expect them to be shipped out the next day, that won't happen. People need too understand there may be issues that require more attention than your need for instant answers. If you want VERY high quality fish and can just relax for a few until they ship and when you send a message, you can't go wrong. The quality is well worth the wait and they will make you whole."

"I agree with other reviews, they are not responsive when you inquire on your order status. If anyone is ordering fish online they want to make sure they are HOME for their arrival. I went a week without knowing when my fish would arrive (after paying for overnight shipping) and was constantly cancelling plans in case they were shipped. I have purchased fish from other online retailers (they are doing SO much better than Cichlid Shack’s) and in store and needless to say, they have all survived. Only one from CS (my favorite - hence the 2 stars) has survived. Overpriced, don’t waste your money - drive an hour to a good store to see the quality of fish you’re purchasing."

"The Cichlid Shack gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ These fish are always stunning! The customer support is great always quick to replay to any situation that you may have. I have made several purchases and when it comes to fish bought online there is a level of trust for both buyer and seller and from experience, James Largo is an honest and trustworthy person to do business with I look forward to doing more in the future"