Why Do African Cichlids Go Sideways?
African cichlids, also known as African rift lake cichlids, are some of the most popular aquarium fish in the world. They are colorful, interesting to watch, and relatively easy to care for. But you may have noticed that, from time to time, these fish swim sideways. What causes this behavior?
What Are African Cichlids?
African cichlids are freshwater fish native to the lakes of Central and East Africa. They are part of the cichlidae family, which also includes other popular aquarium fish such as oscars and discus. African cichlids come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and they can live in a variety of water conditions. They are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter.
Why Do African Cichlids Go Sideways?
African cichlids have a habit of swimming sideways at times. This behavior is known as "lateral swimming" or "lateral line swimming". It is thought to be a form of communication, as the fish use their lateral line system to detect vibrations in the water. The lateral line is a sensory organ located in the side of the body, which allows the fish to detect water pressure changes or vibrations in the water. By swimming sideways, the fish may be able to detect the presence of other fish in the area.
Do All African Cichlids Swim Sideways?
No, not all African cichlids swim sideways. Some species are less inclined to do so than others. Some species of cichlids, such as the red zebra, are more likely to swim sideways than others. In general, however, the behavior is seen more often in cichlids that live in large groups, such as those found in the Great Rift Lakes of Africa.
Conclusion
African cichlids are popular aquarium fish for a reason. They are colorful, interesting to watch, and relatively easy to care for. But it is also interesting to note that these fish have a tendency to swim sideways from time to time. This behavior is known as lateral swimming, and is thought to be a form of communication, as the fish use their lateral line system to detect vibrations in the water. Not all African cichlids swim sideways, but it is more likely to be seen in species that live in large groups.