Colorful Freshwater Fish: African Cichlids

Dwarf Cichlid Ulfhams_Vikingur Flickr

Get ready to explore fish tank requirements for colorful freshwater fish; African cichlids. Learn about cichlid aquarium requirements including aquarium sizes, pH levels, temperature requirements, filtration and fish tank lighting.

The cichlid family is huge offering several species of tropical fish in bright colors, and many cichlids can be raised in tropical fish aquariums. There are fewer varieties that stay small, and most cichlids tend to get quite large. It is worth time exploring cichlid forums and a bit of research on the internet before deciding to keep bigger-sized cichlids requiring a minimum of 50-gallon aquariums.
Fish Tank Requirements

Aquarium Size

Use a  large enough tank that can support the variety of African cichlid that you wish to raise. Always consider growth and maturity sizes. If you want to raise smaller cichlid species in a community tank, make sure the tropical aquarium has plenty of hiding places for other fish. Some cichlids have aggressive temperaments, which need to be considered when placing them in community tanks.

pH Levels

Provide clean water and acceptable alkaline pH levels. Always adjust pH levels at a gradual rate using soda to reduce high acidic conditions in fish tank water. Try for 7.5 up to 8.5 pH levels to keep healthy African cichlids.

Temperature

Maintain aquarium temperatures from 74 degrees to about 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Some people believe a lower temperature of 78 degrees slows the metabolism of cichlids and thus reduces aggression levels.

Filtration

Use a quality filtration system to keep water clean and fresh. Most popular filter types include sponge filters for smaller aquariums, mainly because they are the least expensive. We used undergravel filters in our main tank for years and were very satisfied with this type of filter.

Another popular type are power filters, which fit on the outside of the fish tank and must be purchased with a flow rate to match the size of the aquarium. Regardless of the type of filter chosen, your tank will stay cleaner and look better with occasional vacuuming using a siphon hose. If you find yourself in need of additional aquarium supplies, check with Pets Warehouse.

Fish Tank Lighting

Fish tank lighting is more important than a lot of people realize. In order to keep cichlids healthy, you have to make the health of the fish the priority not just your viewing pleasure. Each tank can have different lighting requirements depending upon the contents of the tank. Particularly aquariums with live plants. Live plants do require fluorescent lighting to survive.

Use your best judgment for deciding how long to leave fluorescent lighting on in your fish tank. I have always left mine on for a minimum of eight hours. Fish, in this case African ciclids, require lighting to be healthy. Lighting helps to duplicate the natural environment that fish are familiar with.

Just like the sun rising in the morning and setting at night, fish also need an established routine. Once the lights in an aquarium are turned down, most fish are not as active and rest, just like people do.

Take your time when selecting new fish for a fish tank and make sure the species you choose are compatible. Watch for more fish articles about keeping cichlids, cichlids and plants and breeding African cichlids.