Southeast Cichlids Introduce
For aquarium enthusiasts across Georgia, especially those passionate about the vibrant and fascinating world of African Cichlids, finding a dedicated and reliable source for high-quality fish can be a true quest. Thankfully, right here in Watkinsville, we are home to a specialized gem: Southeast Cichlids. This isn't a general pet store; it is a premier destination for those seeking beautiful, healthy, and high-quality African Cichlids from the majestic Lakes of Malawi and Tanganyika. With a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of these unique fish, Southeast Cichlids, led by Butch, has established itself as a trusted name in the industry.
African Cichlids are renowned for their stunning colors, diverse behaviors, and complex social structures, making them a captivating addition to any freshwater aquarium. However, their specific care requirements necessitate a knowledgeable supplier. Southeast Cichlids takes pride in not only promoting, breeding, and selling these magnificent fish but also in educating and encouraging all customers to prioritize the best interests of their aquatic animals. They believe in selling "the right fish for your tank," ensuring that every purchase is a successful and sustainable addition to your home aquarium. This dedication to quality and responsible fishkeeping makes them an invaluable resource for the Georgia aquarist community.
Southeast Cichlids is conveniently located at 1131 Industrial Dr, Watkinsville, GA 30677, USA. This address places it in an easily accessible area within Watkinsville, making it a straightforward destination for customers throughout Oconee County and the broader Northeast Georgia region, including those traveling from Athens and surrounding towns. Industrial Drive typically offers good road access and sufficient parking, which is beneficial when planning to transport live fish safely. The specialized nature of the business means that customers are often willing to travel for the quality and expertise offered, and this central location in Watkinsville provides a convenient hub for cichlid enthusiasts across Georgia.
Southeast Cichlids is a highly specialized business, focusing exclusively on African Cichlids and providing tailored services to enthusiasts and breeders.
Sale of High-Quality African Cichlids: The core service of Southeast Cichlids is the provision of beautiful, healthy, and high-quality African Cichlids. They focus on species from the Great Rift Valley Lakes of Malawi and Tanganyika, including popular varieties such as Aulonocara (Peacock Cichlids), Haplochromis, and Mbuna. They maintain an active inventory of various colors and sizes, with specific options like Aulonocara orange, Aulonocara Firefish, and Scieniochromis fryeri Iceberg.
Breeding and Sourcing Expertise: Southeast Cichlids, led by owner Butch Livingston, has a strong background in breeding operations and direct importing from locations like Germany and even Africa. They also work with a network of breeders across the United States, ensuring access to quality and rare specimens that set them apart in the industry. Their goal is to provide exceptional genetics and health in their fish.
Customer Education and Guidance: A significant aspect of their service is the commitment to educating customers. They "strive to educate and encourage all customers to do what is in the best interest of our animals," emphasizing responsible fishkeeping. They are known for only selling "the right fish for your tank," offering advice on compatibility, tank requirements, and general care for cichlids.
Wholesale Inquiries Welcomed: Beyond individual hobbyists, Southeast Cichlids extends its services to wholesale clients, indicating their capacity to supply larger quantities of fish to other retailers or public aquariums, such as their noted supply to the Georgia Aquarium for their Lake Tanganyika display.
Shipping and Delivery Options: For customers unable to visit in person, Southeast Cichlids offers shipping services. They prioritize Southwest Cargo for shipping, citing it as the safest and most economical method. They also offer Saturday delivery options, providing convenience for online orders. (A flat rate shipping fee of $60 typically applies, with free shipping for orders over $600.)
Community Involvement and Resource Provision: Butch Livingston is actively involved in the fish community, providing insights and becoming a valuable resource for other aquarists. His expertise is shared to better inform the community, demonstrating a commitment beyond mere sales.
Southeast Cichlids is defined by several outstanding features that make it a top choice for African Cichlid enthusiasts in Georgia and beyond.
Unmatched Quality and Health of Fish: Customers consistently laud the "quality of the fish" they receive, noting that all fish arrive "healthy and colorful and they're doing great." This commitment to providing robust and vibrant cichlids is a cornerstone of their reputation, ensuring long-term success for hobbyists. Butch's background in breeding and importing, along with a network of quality breeders, directly contributes to this high standard.
Deep Expertise and Knowledge: Owner Butch Livingston is recognized for his profound knowledge and passion for African Cichlids. His extensive experience, including supplying the Georgia Aquarium and importing rare species, positions him as an authoritative figure in the hobby. This expertise translates into invaluable advice and a trustworthy source for customers.
Exceptional Customer Service: Reviewers consistently express extreme satisfaction with the service, stating, "I WILL NOT purchase fish anywhere else! They are the best!" and praising the staff for being "so happy with the service." This high level of customer satisfaction underscores their commitment to positive interactions and support.
Specialized Focus on African Cichlids: Unlike general pet stores, Southeast Cichlids' exclusive focus on African Cichlids means a superior selection and deeper expertise. This specialization ensures that every fish available is well-suited for its species-specific needs and that customers receive tailored guidance.
Convenient Delivery Options: The availability of reliable shipping, including Saturday delivery, greatly benefits customers who might not be able to visit the physical location. This flexibility makes it easier for enthusiasts to acquire their desired fish, regardless of their immediate proximity.
Ethical and Responsible Practices: The stated commitment to selling "the right fish for your tank" and educating customers on the "best interest of our animals" highlights a strong ethical foundation. This ensures that sales are made responsibly, promoting the long-term well-being of the fish.
Reputation and Loyalty: The repeated sentiment of customers stating they "will order from them again" and "will not purchase fish anywhere else" speaks volumes about the trust and loyalty Southeast Cichlids has built within the cichlid community.
For inquiries, orders, or expert advice on African Cichlids, you can connect with Southeast Cichlids using the following contact information:
Address: 1131 Industrial Dr, Watkinsville, GA 30677, USA
Phone: (706) 296-9496
Mobile Phone: +1 706-296-9496
For aquatic enthusiasts across Georgia, particularly those with a keen interest in African Cichlids, Southeast Cichlids in Watkinsville stands as an unparalleled local resource. Its suitability for locals is rooted in its highly specialized focus, which translates into an exceptional quality of fish and deep, authoritative knowledge. Customers consistently laud the health and vibrant colors of the cichlids they receive, often declaring they "WILL NOT purchase fish anywhere else!" This strong endorsement speaks volumes about the consistent quality and care that Butch and his team provide.
Beyond the superior quality of their fish, the dedicated customer service and commitment to education truly set Southeast Cichlids apart. They guide customers in selecting "the right fish for your tank," ensuring successful and harmonious aquarium setups. For both seasoned aquarists seeking rare or specific specimens, and newcomers eager to dive into the world of cichlids, this local establishment provides not just fish, but also invaluable expertise and a supportive community. Whether through in-person visits or convenient shipping options, Southeast Cichlids offers a reliable and expert-driven experience that makes it the premier choice for African Cichlids throughout the Georgia region.
Southeast Cichlids Photos






Southeast Cichlids Location
Southeast Cichlids
1131 Industrial Dr, Watkinsville, GA 30677, USA
Southeast Cichlids Reviews
I have been purchasing my cichlids from SEC and Butch for a few years now and have been so happy with the service & quality of the fish I have received. I WILL NOT purchase fish anywhere else! They are the best!
Apr 09, 2025 · Marianne LambOrdered some cichlids from them. Was able to setup Saturday delivery as well. All arrived healthy and colorful and they're doing great. Will order from them again.
May 14, 2025 · EDank36Best in the game, hands down best quality sustained for many years. 🔥🔥
Jan 14, 2024 · Dhaval PatelThe fish I bought are a very high quality and the pricing was excellent for the size of fish I got. I am very satisfied with my first purchase and I will definitely buy more fish from them in the future.I made a second purchase from this company in February of this year, paying for all males and after a few months, it turned out that the three fish I purchased as males were all females. They did not really try to work with me at all to make it right. I don't think I will but anymore fish from them.
Sep 29, 2022 · Radu ZodilaI bought here . They are very meticulous in detail and I was Impressed to see the shipping! Those fish were ready to get into the the water and very entergetic . They are food right away and get along with the rest of the fish very well.all and all it was a good experience. Just waiting for the color to come back
Apr 29, 2021 · Jerry Ferriss
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