What Fish Do African Cichlids Live With?
Introduction
African Cichlids are a type of freshwater fish that originate from the waters of Africa, specifically the Great Lakes region. Cichlids are popular among fish keepers due to their beautiful colors, interesting behaviors, and relatively low maintenance requirements. If you are thinking of keeping African Cichlids, it is important to understand what type of fish they should live with in order to ensure a healthy and happy tank.
Selecting Tankmates for African Cichlids
When selecting tankmates for African Cichlids, it is best to choose fish of similar size and temperament. African Cichlids have a reputation for being aggressive and territorial, so it is important to pick tankmates that can hold their own when it comes to defending themselves. Smaller fish such as tetras, danios, barbs, and rasboras, tend to be peaceful and can easily be out-competed for food and space. Larger fish such as plecos, oscars, and catfish are also suitable tankmates, as long as they are of similar size and temperament to the cichlids. Make sure to research the individual species thoroughly before adding them to the tank in order to ensure compatibility.
Compatibility with Other Cichlids
In addition to selecting the right tankmates for African Cichlids, it is also important to consider the compatibility of the cichlids themselves. African Cichlids can be separated into three main categories: peaceful, semi-aggressive, and aggressive. It is important to only keep fish of the same temperament together in order to avoid unnecessary aggression and disputes. Keeping cichlids of different temperaments together can create an overly stressful environment which can lead to health problems and even death. It is also important to note that cichlids can become aggressive during breeding season, so it is best to keep a close eye on them during this time.
Water Parameters
In addition to selecting the right tankmates and keeping compatible cichlids together, it is also important to maintain the proper water parameters in order to ensure a healthy environment. African Cichlids prefer a pH between 7.5 and 8.5 and a water hardness between 8 and 12 dH. It is also important to provide adequate filtration, as African Cichlids produce a lot of waste and require regular water changes. Regular water testing is also important in order to monitor the condition of the water and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion
When it comes to selecting tankmates for African Cichlids, it is important to choose fish of similar size and temperament. It is also important to consider the compatibility of the cichlids themselves and only keep fish of the same temperament together. Lastly, it is important to maintain the proper water parameters in order to ensure a healthy environment. By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving tank of happy and healthy African Cichlids.