Cichlids are a beloved fish species among aquarium hobbyists. They come in an array of colors and sizes, and can be found throughout South America.
Cichlids are herbivores and omnivores alike, best kept in an aquarium with temperatures ranging from 76-83 degrees Fahrenheit (24-27 degrees Celsius).
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Angelfish
Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare), are native to tropical South America and commonly found in the Amazon River system. In their natural habitat they prefer calm waters with overhanging vegetation or trees that have fallen into the river system. Dimly lit areas under overhanging vegetation or among fallen trees provide ideal conditions for these fish.
Freshwater angelfish are omnivores, eating fish protein, invertebrates, small insects, larvae and worms. To promote healthy growth and spawning they should be fed shrimp pellets, frozen food or live foods.
Angelfish tend to be relatively calm and relaxed compared to many other cichlid species. By selecting other species of cichlids from the same region and waters as your angelfish, you can create a peaceful, harmonious environment in your tank with them.
Angelfish are a popular type of aquarium fish due to their distinctive arrowhead body structure and graceful fins. Though generally peaceful creatures, be aware that angelfish may become aggressive when mating.
Pike Cichlids
Pike cichlids are large predatory fish native to rivers and creeks in South America. There is a diverse group of these cichlid species found throughout Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina and Guyana.
These highly intelligent creatures make excellent additions to any aquarium, but they require plenty of care and experience in order to stay healthy. A diet consisting of live food such as bloodworms or blackworms will keep them in optimal condition.
These fish require clean water, and their tank should be thoroughly filtered. You should also perform regular partial water changes and deep-cleaning of the substrate to keep your aquatic friends happy.
Blocking off areas such as plastic tubes, hollow driftwood or even rocks with visual barriers such as sections of plastic tube can help reduce aggression between pike cichlids. These creatures are fiercely territorial and will often attack their own kind.
Pike cichlids have an aggressive nature, but can be bred in captivity. For the best results, introduce a mated pair into captivity; however, if that isn’t possible, select two juvenile fish who bond naturally and are of similar size.
Oscar Cichlids
Oscar cichlids are one of the most sought-after species sold at pet stores due to their stunning coloration and captivating personalities. Furthermore, these intelligent fish will recognize their owners and come up close to greet them when in captivity.
They come in an array of colors, such as tiger, albino, leucistic and xanthistic varieties. Perhaps the most renowned variant is the tiger Oscar with its distinctive markings.
Oscar cichlids are a common option for freshwater aquarium tanks. These predatory feeders will eat various foods like insects, crustaceans and small fish.
Oscars can be messy eaters, so it is essential to feed them high-quality pellet food. Many commercial pellets are specifically designed for cichlids and easier to digest than flake foods. Most will eat the pellets whole, eliminating any mess. A balanced diet should include protein, vitamins and minerals in an even amount.
Dwarf Cichlids
Dwarf cichlids are a widely popular community fish choice in small aquariums. Not only are these easy to care for, but they make excellent additions to any tank.
Cichlids come in an array of colors, some highly sought-after. Popular varieties include orange flash and crimson super red.
These fish typically live in caves and crevices in the wild. To provide them with a suitable environment, it should be placed in an aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and dense vegetation.
Cichlids of this species tend to be polygamous in nature and practice “brood care.” They guard their eggs until they hatch, then take over the tank as guardian angels until the fry are big enough to swim independently.
Cichlids are relatively easy to care for and usually peaceful creatures. Pairs or a harem of males and females should be kept together in a tank at least 20 gallons in size.
