Contents of aquarium cichlids
Cichlids are distinguished from other fish by their bright colors.coloring and interesting behavior. There are many types of aquarium cichlids. The fish size ranges from 2 to 50 cm in length. All types of cichlids have a flattened body on the sides and, as a rule, elongated. Large cichlids live 20-25 years, small representatives - 3-5 years.
This species has an unusual shape and bright color.Photo: GettyMost cichlids are unpretentious. However, many species do not like fresh water and too much aeration. The temperature regime should be as close as possible to the temperature of the natural habitat. Most of them are heat-loving and prefer 24-26 C. Organize space zoning: grottoes, stones, thickets of plants, free space. The fish will choose a place to live and will not fight with others for territory. Sand or small flat stones are suitable for the soil. Cichlids like to dig the soil and often pull out planted plants by the roots. Therefore, the plants must have a powerful root system. Choose Java moss or cryptocorynes. Among aquarium cichlids, the most popular are:
- American: astronotus, scalar, geofagus, summercars, akars, discus, apistograms.
- African: telapii, hemichromus, halo-osmies, trophies.
- Asian: entrops.
- Malawian: pseudotrophaeus, haplohromisy, melanochromis.
For each family and species createindividual living conditions. Cichlids eat any live food with pleasure. However, they are also satisfied with dry and frozen food. Periodically feed cichlids with duckweed. For herbivores, chop up lettuce, cabbage and dandelion leaves. Cichlids are dedicated parents. Some species carry eggs in their mouths. Other cichlid species lay eggs on stones or in a hole in the sand and vigilantly guard their offspring.
Compatibility of aquarium cichlids with other fish
It is best to raise cichlids with your ownrelatives. Many cichlids are predators, so do not keep them with small fish. They are also irritated by fish that are too slow. Do not add the following inhabitants to cichlids:
- male fetuses;
- zebrafish;
- goldfish;
- black telescopes;
- guppies;
- Mollies;
- swordsmen.
If the young individuals tolerate their neighbors, thenAdults will not do this. Small cichlids, for example, pelmatochromis, nannacara, apistogramma are quite peaceful. American cichlids are quite aggressive and demonstrate their difficult character, especially during breeding. Asian cichlids are relatively calm and easy-going fish. Be careful when choosing cichlids for your aquarium. Consider their size, character and conditions of maintenance. Also interesting:
