Learning how to look after Cichlids is a very rewarding and relaxing hobby. But why keep Cichlids as opposed to any other tropical fish? Well, simply because Cichlids offer the greatest diversity of any group of fish in terms of color, shape, size, breeding patterns and behavior. However, looking after Cichlids can present some additional challenges.
In order to successfully keep your cichlids in your aquarium it is important to as closely as possible replicate the conditions in which they live in their natural environment. The important factors to consider are the acidity or alkalinity of the water (or pH), the temperature, the water hardness and the layout of the tank.
In general, African Cichlids tend to prefer slightly alkaline water, whereas Cichlids from South America prefer slightly acidic water. Where you require your water to be alkaline, you can use gravel, rocks and crushed coral to help maintain the correct alkalinity.
The ideal temperature range of the water for Cichlids is between 74F (23C) to 82F (28C) the optimum being 78F (26C). You should ensure that you position your aquarium away from radiators, heaters and direct sunlight in order to avoid overheating.
In terms of layout of your tank, again it is a matter of considering where the fish originate from. Therefore for South American Cichlids for example, you will need a well planted aquarium. In contrast, Cichlids from Lake Malawi do not need plants and prefer either plenty of rocks with little caves to shelter in, or more sandy conditions with plenty of open water to swim about in.
In conclusion then, keeping Cichlids is an extremely satisfying and at times challenging pursuit which can be relaxing and interesting.
Why not find out more about keeping Cichlids. Find out all about the secrets of successfully keeping Cichlids at http://www.cichlid-care.info.
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