African Cichlids

African Cichlids, belonging to the Cichlidae family, are native to various African lakes including Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Victoria. Each of these lakes hosts unique species adapted to the specific environment of the lake. These fish are renowned for their diverse colors, unique behaviors, and resilience, which makes them appealing to aquarists. However, their aggressive nature and specific water requirements can pose a challenge to beginners and thus, they are better suited for intermediate to advanced fishkeepers.

Different Species

Here are 10 of the more popular African Cichlids:

• Metriaclima zebra: Also known as the Zebra Cichlid, this fish is found in Lake Malawi and is known for its striking blue and black horizontal stripes.

• Labidochromis caeruleus: Known as the Yellow Lab, this Lake Malawi cichlid is popular due to its vibrant yellow color and relative peacefulness.

• Aulonocara nyassae: The Blue Peacock is a colorful cichlid from Lake Malawi, prized for its stunning blue color.

• Aulonocara stuartgranti: The Sunshine Peacock, also from Lake Malawi, exhibits striking yellow and blue colors.

• Cyphotilapia frontosa: Known as Frontosa, these are large, slow-growing, and peaceful cichlids from Lake Tanganyika, characterized by their humped forehead.

• Julidochromis marlieri: Known as the Marlier's Julie, this is a small, elongated, and relatively peaceful cichlid from Lake Tanganyika.

• Neolamprologus brichardi: Commonly known as the Princess of Burundi, this Lake Tanganyika cichlid is popular for its graceful long fins and cooperative breeding behavior.

• Pseudotropheus demasoni: This is a dwarf Mbuna cichlid from Lake Malawi, famous for its striking blue and black vertical stripes.

• Haplochromis nyererei: This colorful cichlid from Lake Victoria is a rare sight in home aquariums and is loved for its vibrant red and yellow patterns.

• Neolamprologus tretocephalus: Known as the Five-bar Cichlid, this species from Lake Tanganyika is relatively peaceful and features five dark vertical stripes.

Sex Identification

Sexual dimorphism, where males and females exhibit distinct physical traits, varies by species. In many species, males are often larger and more vibrantly colored. For example, in peacock cichlids, males display a wide array of colors while females are generally more subdued. Some species, like Mbunas, have males with "egg spots" on their anal fins, a trait lacking in females.

In some species, venting is the most reliable method to identify sex. This involves observing the shape and arrangement of the genital papilla during the breeding period. Males have two separate openings while females have one common opening.

Breeding

Most African Cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders. The process begins with a mating dance where the male displays his vibrant colors. After the female lays eggs, she picks them up in her mouth. The male then fertilizes the eggs in her mouth where they stay until they hatch and even for a while after. Creating a conducive environment with good water quality, correct pH, and ample hiding spaces encourages breeding.

Crossbreeding is a concern, especially among closely related species, so it's recommended to keep different species separately if you plan to breed. Some species, like the Mbuna, have a hierarchy that should be considered during breeding. Introducing new females or reorganizing the tank can disrupt the hierarchy and lead to stress and fights.

Water Parameters

African Cichlids thrive in water that mirrors the hard, alkaline conditions of the African Rift Lakes. The ideal water pH is between 7.8 and 8.6, and hardness should be between 10-20 dGH. The preferred temperature is 75-80°F (24-27°C). Regular water changes are important for maintaining these parameters and for removing waste products.

Ideal water parameters for Lake Malawi Cichlids

Lake Malawi, located in the East African Rift system, is home to numerous cichlid species. The water of Lake Malawi has a high mineral content and is quite alkaline. Here are the parameters you should aim to replicate in a home aquarium for Malawi cichlids:

• pH: The pH of Lake Malawi ranges from 7.8 to 8.6. Therefore, when keeping Malawi cichlids, aim to maintain a pH within this range.

• Hardness: The hardness of the water in Lake Malawi is relatively high due to the high mineral content. A general hardness (GH) between 10-20 dGH is ideal.

• Temperature: The water temperature in Lake Malawi typically stays between 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F). When keeping Malawi cichlids in an aquarium, try to keep the temperature between 24-28°C (75-82°F).

• Nitrates/Nitrites/Ammonia: As with any aquarium, these toxic substances should be as close to zero as possible. Regular testing will help you monitor these levels.

• Water changes: Regular water changes are necessary to maintain these parameters, remove waste, and keep the water quality high. Aim for 15-20% water changes every week or 25-30% every two weeks, depending on the bioload of your tank.

• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Lake Malawi's water also contains a significant level of Total Dissolved Solids, around 200 ppm. While TDS isn't usually a parameter hobbyists monitor, it's part of replicating the natural water conditions of Malawi cichlids.

Remember, the aim is to provide consistent water conditions. Sudden changes can stress fish, leading to health problems. Make changes gradually and always take the time to acclimate new fish properly to avoid shocking them.

Ideal water parameters for Lake Victorian Cichlids

Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, is home to a large number of cichlid species. These fish are adapted to the specific water conditions found in this lake. Here are the ideal parameters to replicate in an aquarium for Lake Victoria cichlids:

• pH: Lake Victoria has a pH that typically ranges from 7.2 to 8.6. When keeping Victoria cichlids, aim to maintain a pH within this range.

• Hardness: Lake Victoria's water is relatively hard. The general hardness (GH) should be around 8-12 dGH.

• Temperature: The water temperature in Lake Victoria usually stays between 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F). When keeping Victoria cichlids in an aquarium, aim for a temperature within this range.

• Nitrates/Nitrites/Ammonia: As with any aquarium, the levels of these harmful substances should be as close to zero as possible. Regular testing will allow you to monitor these levels.

• Water changes: Regular water changes are important for maintaining these parameters, removing waste, and ensuring high water quality. Aim for 10-20% water changes every week, or 20-25% every two weeks, depending on the bioload of your tank.

Remember, the specific requirements can vary slightly between different species, so it's crucial to research the needs of each species you intend to keep. Also, always acclimate new fish properly to avoid shocking them with a sudden change in water conditions. Consistency in water parameters is key to the health and wellbeing of your cichlids.

Ideal water parameters for Tanganyikan cichlids:

• pH: Lake Tanganyika has a naturally high pH level ranging from 8.0 to 9.0, so aim for a pH within this range in your aquarium.

• Hardness: The hardness of the water in Lake Tanganyika is also higher than in most freshwater environments. General hardness (GH) should be between 10-20 degrees, while carbonate hardness (KH), which helps buffer the pH and keep it stable, should be at least 4-5 degrees, but can be higher.

• Temperature: The water temperature in Lake Tanganyika stays fairly stable year-round, ranging from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F). For the aquarium, aim for a temperature between 24-27°C (75-80°F) for most species. Some species, particularly deep water species, may prefer the cooler end of this range.

• Nitrates/Nitrites/Ammonia: As with any aquarium, it's critical to maintain low levels of harmful substances. Ammonia and nitrite levels should be zero, while nitrate levels should be kept as low as possible, preferably below 20 ppm.

• Water changes: Regular water changes are important for removing waste and keeping the water quality high. Aim for 10-20% water changes every week or two, depending on the bioload of your tank.

Remember, water parameters can vary slightly between different species. Always do thorough research on the specific requirements of the species you wish to keep. And be sure to acclimate new fish slowly to your tank to avoid shock from sudden changes in water conditions.

Feeding

As omnivores, African Cichlids do well on a varied diet. Provide a staple diet of high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes, and supplement this with fresh or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and spirulina. Some species also enjoy blanched vegetables such as peas, spinach, and zucchini. Avoid overfeeding as cichlids can become obese, leading to various health issues.

Aquarium Decor

Cichlids are territorial fish and should be provided with plenty of hiding places to establish territories and to feel secure. Use rocks, caves, and driftwood for the setup. Mbunas, in particular, appreciate a rocky aquascape with caves.

While plants can be used in a cichlid tank, many cichlids have a habit of digging which can uproot plants. If you want to include plants, opt for robust and fast-growing species like Anubias, Java Fern, and Vallisneria.

Filtration

Cichlids need clean, well-oxygenated water and therefore, strong filtration is necessary. A high-quality canister filter is often a good choice as it can handle the high bioload that cichlids produce. Some aquarists also use sponge filters or power filters for additional biological filtration.

Your filtration system should aim for a turnover rate of 4-5 times the volume of the tank per hour. Regular maintenance of the filter media is necessary to maintain its efficiency and to prevent the accumulation of harmful substances.

Remember, African Cichlids can be challenging to keep but can also be immensely rewarding for aquarists who are ready to meet their specific care needs.