Cichlids

The origin of cichlids for the aquarium hobby, tend to be grouped regionally, and include African Cichlids (Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika, South American), Central American, Madagascar, New World and Asian.

The most commonly found and popular, are the African, and “New World” or American Cichlids. Here are a couple of examples of each, which can add color as well as presence to your aquarium set up.

Ruby Peacock Cichlid (African)- a new strain of the Peacock Cichlid from the Lake Malawi area, males are a particularly nice ruby red color, with metallic blue blotches, and a dorsal fin outlined in the same blue. The different strains of peacock cichlids normally have more than one color in both male and female, but this strain is strictly red. They like a large aquarium of 50-gallons or more, with lots of rocks and a sand substrate. Males tend to be territorial with their own kind. Compatible with other Africa Cichlids and African Catfish. Grows to 6”.

Orange Leleupi Cichlid (African)- one of the smaller cichlids, this orange species is found along the coastal waters of Southern Lake Tanganyika, Africa. They are a more elongated shape than most species of cichlids, and have an unusually large mouth, which may be outlined in black or blue. White aragonite for the tank bottom will maintain their required PH and contribute to good coloring. Provide lots of driftwood and rock for caves. Likes an aquarium of 30-gallons or more. Compatible with other African cichlids of same or smaller size, and African catfish.

Red Oscar Cichlid (American)- developed from standard wild type Oscars that carried more red color on their sides. This species is now predominantly red, with darker shades of the usual olive green around the edges, and the typical “eye spot” on the tail that gives the species its name. They are mainly bred for commercial sale in Florida and Southeast Asia. Likes a large aquarium of 70-gallons or more, and a deep sandy bottom with lots of rocks. Known to dig up plants. Hearty eaters, they should be kept with fish of the same size or larger, due to their appetites. Compatible with loaches, sharks, scavenger catfish and plecos. Grow to 12”.

Texas Cichlid (American)- a gray-bodied cichlid with pearly gold and black speckling, and a hint of black stripes. Found in Texas, and northern Mexico. As with most cichlids, it is known to re-arrange the tank, moving rocks and plants. Likes a tank of 50-gallons or more, and requires at least weekly changes of 25-50% of the water, for optimal health. Relatively territorial, should be kept with fish of same or larger size. Compatible with other New World cichlids, plecos and scavenger catfish. Can grow to 12” in the wild, but captive growth is usually in the 6-8” range.

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