Tips on Caring for African Cichlids

By: Michael Grantham

Tips on Caring for African Cichlids

Both large and diverse, the cichlid family holds over one thousand species from many different locations, including the great African Rift Lakes, South America, Central America, Madagascar and even Asia. Noted for their hardy nature, strong personality and vibrant color, many cichlids have become favorites throughout the aquarium trade and are often kept by those new to tropical fish keeping as well as experienced breeders and advanced hobbyists.

Although each species falls under the common family name, it is important not to generalize as cichlids are unique and have specific requirements and habitats depending on the geographical location from which they were derived.
Should anyone wish to keep cichlids it is a good idea to first consider; how much effort you are willing to put into your hobby, the size of the tank you have available and what you are looking for in a fish. Furthermore, it is also recommended that you do some back ground research, reading up on several species which appeal to you, their requirements and their availability in your local area. It is important to remember that just because you see a fish on the internet or in a book, does not mean you will be able to obtain that specific fish, as import laws and environmental restrictions vary from country to country and even from state to state. However, any questions you might have about such laws can easily be cleared up by taking a quick trip to your local pet store.
When deciding which fish is right for you, it is most important to remember that each cichlid species is unique not only in terms of requirements, but also when referring to aggression, nutrition requirements, reproduction method and preferred tank decorations and or tank mates.

Of the cichlids, those from central and south America, are generally larger in size and bulk to their African counterparts. Species from Central America tend to prefer a neutral pH of about 7.0. Commonly, these fish are large and loud in terms of personality and aggression and as a result, tend to be best kept with fish similar in size and level of aggression. On the other hand, many of the cichlids derived from South America prefer a far more soft acidic environment; their pH around 6.5. Further, fish of these area tend to be far less aggressive and should be kept in warm watered community tanks. Both South and Central American cichlids are omnivorous and should be fed a mixed diet, incorporating live, prepared, and dried and frozen foods. This may include both meat and vegetables.

Far more complex in their geographical distribution, cichlids from the African Rift Lakes often prefer hard Alkaline waters with a pH ranging from 7.5 9.0. Essentially, the range of these fish goes beyond the scope of this article. Thus, should you wish to learn more specific information about such species, please see my other articles for further advice.