About Cichlid Vault

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Cichlid Vault was founded by three longtime aquarium hobbyists — Marlon Lopez, Enio Albuquerque, and Jackie Cheng — with one goal: to source exceptional fish from around the world and make them available to hobbyists at the best possible value.

Our Sources

One of our main partners is an established ornamental fish farm that has been breeding fish since 1989, bringing decades of experience in selective breeding and the development of new varieties.

The farm specializes in Malawi cichlids and Neocaridina shrimp, with a strong focus on selective breeding, exceptional coloration, quality genetics, and the continued development of new varieties.

Working directly with experienced breeders and established farms gives Cichlid Vault access to quality fish at the source and allows us to be highly selective about the fish we offer our customers.

Selectively Bred for Cichlid Vault

We also work with local breeders who selectively breed fish specifically for Cichlid Vault.

By building long-term relationships with both international farms and local breeders, we can focus on the traits that matter most to us — strong genetics, vibrant coloration, proper body shape, health, and overall quality.

We aren't interested in simply carrying as many fish as possible.

We want to carry better fish.

Quality + Value

As hobbyists ourselves, we understand that value matters just as much as quality. Our goal is to source efficiently, work directly with breeders whenever possible, and provide our customers with exceptional fish at the best possible value.

From premium Malawi cichlids and Tanganyikans to South American species, selectively bred fish, and individually selected WYSIWYG specimens, we're constantly searching for fish worth adding to your collection.

Founded by hobbyists. Sourced from breeders. Selected for hobbyists.

Marlon Lopez • Enio Albuquerque • Jackie Cheng

Cichlid Vault
Unlock Something Rare.