african cichlid types

The Peacock Cichlid is known for having quite a variety of different colors. Although the Rift Valley lake cichlids are probably the most popular when it comes to African cichlids, they are not the only ones. The species can be kept in community aquariums with other Tanganyika cichlids, but keep in mind that it’ll happily devour any significantly smaller tankmates. On average, an African Cichlid grows up to 4-8” (7-20 cm). Synodontis Catfish. Good lighting is important in keeping your African cichlids happy and healthy. The species also prefer the same water condition as the African Cichlids (7-8.0 pH or slightly alkaline), hence it can be a successful tankmate for your African Cichlids. Mbuna (pronounced boo - nuh) is the common name for a large group of African cichlids from Lake Malawi, and are members of the haplochromine family. The coloring on the Peacock Cichlid’s skin is iridescent as opposed to being a fixed color shade. So, with the exception of the odd vacation, I have little use for a maintenance service in my home or business myself. Simply contact us here and we’ll see what we can do to realize your dream aquarium. The very popular Kribensis cichlid is from Africa. There are also several hundred vibrantly beautiful species of cichlids found in Lake Victoria alone. If you are living in an area with softer or more acidic water, crushed coral can be used as an aquarium substrate to gently increase the alkalinity of the water.eval(ez_write_tag([[580,400],'cichlidguide_com-banner-1','ezslot_13',131,'0','0'])); Harsh experience has taught us that modifying tanks on a weekly basis to increase or decrease pH can be very tricky and easily lead to unfortunate incidents that can directly injure fish or make them more susceptible to disease. Even among the more “peaceful” species in this group there can be aggression issues if, for example, there are multiple males vying for domination with each other in a breeding setup. Don’t bother adding plants to your tank if you’re keeping African cichlids – most of them are herbivorous and all but the hardiest plants will quickly be torn apart as salad. Fish information on the types of cichlids from Lake Tanganyika, Tropheus Cichlids, Frontosa, Goby Cichlids, Shelldwellers and more, habitats and cichlids tanks for Tanganyika Cichlids. Given their size, electric blue cichlids are best suited to aquariums of 80 gallons (long) and up. All rights reserved. These vividly colored fish are often confused for saltwater species by the uninitiated and are frequently relegated to the back of the freshwater section. With that in mind, here are three types of cichlid compatible catfish that make great additions for the home aquarium: Synodontis Catfish Species Keep in mind that this species naturally preys on smaller fish and will actively hunt even in the aquarium, often using a fascinating but deadly method of playing dead. Also known as the peacock cichlid or emperor cichlid, Aulonocara nyassae is a rather spectacular way to kick off this list. Bigger is always better, especially when talking tank size and African cichlids. The Peacock Cichlid is a stunning species of fish native to Lake Malawi; it belongs to the Astatotilapia genus. Copyright © 2018 by FantaSEA Aquariums. Synodontis Catfish have almost similar behavior as that of the African Cichlids. Oh, the best part – they’re always on time and have super reasonable rates even if it’s just keeping our small home tank clean on a monthly basis. Most species are also fairly hardy and are perfect for both novice and experienced aquarists. Aulonocara nyassae, the blue peacock cichlid, reaches a maximum size of around 6” and can be kept in aquariums of 55 gallon and up. Want to read more about this feisty, red bellied number? Thank you Dalton and the team at FantaSEA for keeping our aquariums clean and even suggesting better combinations of fish for more of a “wow” factor! With a maximum size of up to 12” this is the largest species on the list, and it’ll generally make good use of this advantage in order to take rule of the aquarium. The Malawi Cichlids are some of the most brilliantly colored fishes. Though many of the species that were once categorized in this genus have since been recategorized, the name Hap cichlid is still used as a general term for any no… The Pleco is also an ideal tankmate for African Cichlids, especially if you want to spend less time cleaning the tank. The Mbuna group is endemic to Lake Malawi. The genus is quite peaceful for cichlid standards, making it a suitable choice for combining with other Malawi cichlids. Although there are species that can grow up to an astounding length of 31” (80 cm), there are others that grow only 1.4” (3.5 cm). For the home aquarium hobbyist, African cichlids display fascinating breeding behaviors. Temperatures in the tank should be kept around 80 F, although somewhat cooler (but not cold) water can often induce spawning behavior in mature adults. Different species of dwarf cichlids have very different care requirements. Keep it up guys. Not all African cichlids are equal. Most common are the Mbuna (literally “rock fish” in the local language) of Lake Malawi, and the broad range of species available from this single region is a study in the diversification and specialization of evolution.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'cichlidguide_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',130,'0','0'])); Many cichlids that you’ll find at the fish store are identified both by common names (Red Zebra, Red Empress, Electric Yellow Lab) and by their scientific names (Pseudotropheus estherae, Protomelas taeniolatus, Labidochromis caeruleus respectively); rarer cichlids are generally identified only by their Latin names. The minimum size tank we recommend for a mildly aggressive pair-bonded species like N. Brichardi or a small group of L. Caeruleus would be in the 20-30 gallon range. Other than Africans, we have had success with larger, bony Plecostomus catfish, and somewhat surprisingly Clown Loaches have also thrived in our mixed African tanks. Moderately aggressive species include the Haplochromines from Lake Victoria, the Peacocks (Auloncara sp.) In West Africa, for example, you’ll find Pelvicachromis pulcher (better known as the Kribensis cichlid). They inhabit the rocky areas of the lake. If you need help, you’re in the right place! Not surprising. Others are native to African rivers and streams, and live in a wide variety of habitats. As a group, cichlids exhibit a similar diversity of body shapes, ranging from strongly laterally compressed species (such as Altolamprologus, Pterophyllum, and Symphysodon) to species that are cylindrical and highly elongated (such as Julidochromis, Teleogramma, Teleocichla, Crenicichla, and Gobiocichla ). Please Note: The small (2" or less) African Cichlids are in their juvenile coloration and the sex of these fish cannot be determined. Keep it in harems to avoid overly aggressive spawning attempts as well as territorial displays on the part of the males. Looking for New World Cichlids? African cichlids generally originate in one of the three rift lakes of Eastern Africa; Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika, or Lake Victoria. There are at least 22 different species of Peacocks, the majority of which have stunning coloration.. Their coloring can vary … This error message is only visible to WordPress admins. Check out our best aquarium lighting guide to see what you need to look out for and what to avoid. One of each species, like an auloncara with a utaka and/or a mbuna would be fine. Another relatively large species with its maximum size of around 10”, the Venustus cichlid (Nimbochromis venustus) is naturally found in Lake Malawi. This means they do not mix well with peaceful community fish.eval(ez_write_tag([[468,60],'cichlidguide_com-leader-1','ezslot_9',127,'0','0'])); There is still a great deal of variation within the species of Africans; some like the popular yellow labs or Brichardi are relatively mild while others like many of the Melanochromis species (Johanni, Auratus) are far more belligerent and thus likely to inflict mayhem at some point. Background established, I have had excellent rapport with Fantasea Aquariums. Most show significant brood care; unlike many fish that spawn and immediately abandon their eggs or even turn and cannibalize them, Africans will guard their eggs or fry. Cichlid Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This is not a fish for small tanks, not just due to its size but also because it naturally occurs in very large groups and appreciates some company in the aquarium as well. Keep in mind that only the males display the typical spectacular coloration, but avoid combining multiple males to prevent territorial squabbles! African cichlids are a larger species of freshwater fish that originate in Africa, Asia, and South America. Website by Blue Ridge Media Company. Males stake out territories in rock overhangs or caves for spawning. There are few fish that are compatible with African cichlids; indeed, many species within the category won’t mix well long term. In some African Cichlids, the pelvic fins are elongated and bottom edges of their anal and dorsal fins are pointed. African Cichlids The Cichlidae family contains over 1,200 species of fish, the majority of which are found in the Tanganyika and Malawai Lakes of central Africa. This page is a great "starter" for learning to identify your mystery cichlid. If you have a desire for a beautiful and functional aquarium, with excellent service, I highly recommend calling these guys first! If you are going to mix lakes, do your homework up front to avoid tragedies later. Highly recommended for all your fishtank needs. Also known as the humphead cichlid due to their rather pronounced forehead (which is especially noticeable in the males), Frontosa cichlids from the Cyphotilapia genus are probably the most well-known species from Lake Tanganyika. Lake Malawi is one of the three rift lakes of Eastern Africa, along with Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria, and stretches 360 miles from north to south. Size of African Cichlid. All rights reserved. African Malawi Cichlid. African cichlids come from the African Lakes in the Rift Valley. The physical traits of the African Cichlid vary depending on the sub-species, of which there are many. Though not actually that closely related to the electric yellow cichlid, the electric blue (Sciaenochromis fryeri) certainly does make a good match with it color-wise. Tanganyikan cichlids are some of the most interesting African cichlids around, ranging from the shell-dwelling Lamprologus species to the hefty Cyphotilapia Frontosa which can reach 12” or more. Each of these regions has their own distinct species that are well suited to aquarium life. Other peaceful Haplochromis cichlids work well to finish the community. We have experienced aquarium fish breeders with the main focus on African Cichlids, particularly Lake Malawi Cichlids. Thinking of setting up an aquarium for African cichlids? While they aren’t for everyone, African cichlids are among the most beautiful and fascinating of all freshwater fish. Oct 9, 2020 - Explore Jude's board "Cichlids" on Pinterest. There are a number of different genus of cichlids that can be found in Lake Malawi but one of the largest is the Haplochromis genus – fishes belonging to this genus are commonly called Hap cichlids. N. Brichardi are cave brooders who form an extended family; older generations of fry will help the parents guard the smaller fry against external predation. If they’re essentially identical, then larger water changes (we’ve done 75% changes fairly regularly) will be fine. Lake Malawi Cichlids Two extreme cases leap to mind. More aggressive cichlids, larger species, or mixed groups require more space; some like Frontosa should really not be kept in anything less than 100 gallons. A shoaling cichlid found throughout Lake Tanganyika, Paracyprichromis brieni is closely related to Paracyprichromis nigripinnis and the more commonly known Cyprichromis species.P. Ideal foods for these fish will include a variety that is plant protein heavy like a quality Spirulina flake, though they will also eat most other food options as treats. The many species from the Rift Valley lakes Malawi and Tanganyika are extremely diverse in color and give you an amazing opportunity to set up a biotope aquarium. The name mbuna means "rockfish" in the language of the Tonga people of Malawi. They prefer hard or alkaline water and tend to be quite aggressive in nature. African Cichlids swimming together African cichlids (Blue Peacock in focus) in a show aquarium in a pet Store in Port Huron, Mi called ""Feed and Seed."" These fish tend to be a popular pet among aquarists, due to the large range of colors that you can keep, even if you don’t have a saltwater tank. The lighting should keep the tank as close to their natural habitat as possible – ensuring your fish grow to their full vibrant potential. brieni prefers deeper waters but will stay close to rocks. I have also had remarkable service on a device that fell and was ruined by saltwater (my fault.) Available in a range of different color variations such as an electric blue, neon orange and lemon yellow (both naturally occurring and selectively bred), the genus Aulonocara is sure to be the focal point of your Malawi aquarium. See more ideas about cichlids, african cichlids, aquarium fish. In most cases, fish will thrive more in a stable environment that isn’t quite perfect than in one that is being constantly adjusted. This results in a smaller number of larger and hardier fry.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'cichlidguide_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_0',133,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'cichlidguide_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_1',133,'0','1'])); An ideal breeding group of many African cichlids is one dominant male to several females; this is made trickier since most species are impossible to sex as juveniles and some are even difficult to tell apart as mature adults. The representative breeds of Lake Malawi are Bumblebee Cichlid, Demasoni Cichlid, Venustus Cichlid, Yellow Lab Cichlid, Peacock Cichlid, and so on. African cichlids are often described by hobbyists as living in an environment of “liquid rock”; they prefer hard water that is mineral rich and alkaline (pH 7.5-8.4), and will do best in a setup that includes plenty of stacked rocks and caves to explore. The electric yellow cichlid is a popular choice among beginning African cichlid keepers due to its relatively peaceful nature. Website by, Coral Beauty Angel Fish | Centropyge Bispinosa Care & Info, Clownfish Eggs | Breeding Clownfish at Home. Other types of East African Cichlids include Victoria Cichlids found in lakes surrounding Lake Victoria. The Cichlidae family is a large and diverse family, with at least 1300 scientifically described species, and more than 160 genera.

Necco Wafers - Dollar Tree, Abode Low Battery, Reddit Family Medicine Residency Interviews, Presto Dehydro Temperature, Correcting Denture Lisp, Worst Rap Lyrics, In Dreams Chords, Red Globe Amaranth Flower, Very Easy Game, Limitations Of Neuman Systems Model, Covered Call Strategy For Income, Puss In Boots, Interactive Chat Plugin Minecraft,