The Aquarium Fish Cichlid Characteristics

There are many different types of fish to be considered when setting up an aquarium. This
different fish have different characteristics that have different implications on the science of
keeping an aquarium. Some fish will adapt very well to the aquarium environment and others
will require the simulation of their habitat in order to make them fit into the aquarium
environment.
The Cichlid has many species of fish. The aquarium fish Cichlid has many
characteristics that should be noted before setting up an aquarium. Here are some of those
characteristics.
Size: The Cichlids can be found in many different shapes and sizes. Most cichlids are of an
average size of 5 to 20 inches. However, some cichlids can be as small as 1 inch while some
species may be as long as 4 feet. One popular aquarium fish Cichlid is the Oscar which is
about 18 inches in size. The Angelfish is another aquarium fish from this family of fish and it
is typically about 30 inches in length. Some Angelfish have long fins that other smaller and
aggressive fish love to nibble. Care should be taken when pairing them with such aggressive
fish.
Feeding: When the Cichlids are in their natural habitat they eat plants such as the algae. They
also love to feed on tiny invertebrates and most of them are omnivorous. The Angelfish loves
to eat small portions of meaty foods. Oscars love to eat insects such as grasshoppers and can
even eat mice. Care should be taken as the cichlids can eat more food than is necessary. The
Oscar species of the Cichlids needs Vitamin C and cannot survive without it.
Temperament: Most Cichlids have a mild temperament but can be quite aggressive during
their mating season. Some species of fish can also be aggressive to this fish. There are
Cichlids that will prey on smaller fish therefore those fish should not be paired with them lest
they eat them.
Aquarium requirements: Most Cichlids live in environments of between 55 degrees and 80
degrees Fahrenheit. However, some species of cichlids require a heated tank. The Angelfish
prefers temperatures above 80. The Angelfish may require a heated tank. The aquarium
should be slightly alkaline as that is the preferable environment for the Cichlids. Cichlids can
be aggressive and care should be taken when pairing the Cichlids with other fish. Cichlids
will eat smaller fish.
Breeding: Most aquarium fish Cichlids are developed through interbreeding with other
species in order to get certain desired characteristics. Interbred species of fish tend to lack the
ability to reproduce. Normally Cichlids can take care of the fry without any challenges,
however breeding of fish in tanks is best left to experts.
The characteristics mentioned above are only meant to serve as a guideline to help you
establish which fish to get for your aquarium. There are many aquarium fish cichlids and each
should be studied carefully before choosing the most appropriate fish for your aquarium.
More information on any specific type of cichlid or fish can be found in your local pet shop.