What Type of African Cichlids Are There?
African cichlids are some of the most popular aquarium fish in the world. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a perfect addition to any home aquarium. But with so many types of African cichlids to choose from, it can be difficult to know which species is best for your aquarium. In this article, we will discuss the different types of African cichlids, their care requirements, and how to identify them.
Types of African Cichlids
There are over 1,000 species of African cichlids, and they can be divided into two main types: haplochromines and mbuna. Haplochromines are larger, more colorful fish that are usually found in open water. They have bright colors and long fins, and they tend to be more aggressive than mbuna. Mbuna are smaller, more peaceful fish that live in rocky areas. They have duller colors and shorter fins, and they are less aggressive than haplochromines.
Haplochromine Cichlids
The most popular type of haplochromine cichlid is the peacock cichlid. These fish have bright colors and long fins, and they are very hardy. Other popular haplochromines include the electric blue cichlid, the yellow lab cichlid, and the African butterfly cichlid. These fish can be kept in tanks with other haplochromines, but they should not be kept with mbuna.
Mbuna Cichlids
Mbuna are some of the most popular aquarium fish in the world. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they are very hardy. Popular mbuna species include the zebra cichlid, the yellow lab cichlid, and the electric blue cichlid. These fish should not be kept with other mbuna, as they can become aggressive. Mbuna should only be kept with other peaceful fish.
Care Requirements for African Cichlids
African cichlids have similar care requirements, regardless of the species. They require a tank that is at least 30 gallons in size, with a pH of 7.2-8.0. The tank should be decorated with rocks, caves, and plants to provide hiding places for the fish. The water should be kept at a temperature of 75-85°F, and the tank should be well-filtered. African cichlids should be fed a high-quality, cichlid-specific diet that includes some algae-based foods.
How to Identify African Cichlids
Identifying African cichlids can be tricky, as they all look quite similar. It is important to note that many species have similar colors and patterns, so it is important to look closely at the fish's markings. It is also important to look at the size of the fish, as some species can be quite small compared to others. Finally, it is important to note that some species can change color as they mature, so it is important to keep an eye on the color of your fish.
Conclusion
African cichlids are some of the most popular aquarium fish in the world. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a perfect addition to any home aquarium. African cichlids can be divided into two main types: haplochromines and mbuna. Haplochromines are larger, more colorful fish that are usually found in open water, while mbuna are smaller, more peaceful fish that live in rocky areas. African cichlids have similar care requirements, and they should be fed a high-quality, cichlid-specific diet. Identifying African cichlids can be tricky, so it is important to look closely at the fish's markings and size. With the right care, African cichlids can live for many years and bring beauty and color to your aquarium.