
Both of these will require at least 250 gallons (946 L) with larger being better. For example, the Boulengerochromis microlepis from Africa, which reaches up to 36" (90 cm) is really too large for most hobbyists.Some large South American cichlids that are occasionally available in the hobby are the Peacock Bass Cichla ocellaris, which grows to a length of 30" (75 cm), and the Wolf Cichlid Parachromis dovii, which can reach a length of 24" (60 cm). The cichlid family is so vast that there many good aquarium inhabitants, but there are also many species that are not really suitable for the home aquarium due to size. African Cichlids are conservatively estimated at about 1300 species, while South American Cichlids and Central American Cichlids are estimated at about 570 species. The actual number of cichlid species is unknown but are generally estimated somewhere between 2000 to 5000, with at least 1300 species scientifically described. It is believed that cichlids moved to freshwaters from the marine environment, and they have features relating to a number of marine species including the wrasses, parrotfish, damsels, and surfperches. They are categorized as "secondary freshwater fish" - meaning their ancestors were marine fish. Consequently cichlids are found in a wide variety of conditions. Other types of cichlids are from the great rift lakes of Africa, as well as other lakes, rivers and streams. Central and South America comprises a huge geographic area with greatly diverse habitats ranging from savannas to rain forests. Information on freshwater aquariums for cichlids:įreshwater Aquarium Basics - Setting up a Freshwater Aquarium and Fish CareĬichlids are found in Africa, Central and South America, and a few species from parts of Asia. But most seen in the hobby have a mix of fascinating of characteristics and are a delight to keep. However some are not really suitable for the home aquarium due to size. Some cichld species, both African Cichlids and South American Cichlids, reach an impressive size and are great specimens for a large show tank. Others for unique characteristics as seen in the popular Tropheus genus, featherfins, goby cichlids, and shelldwellers to name a few. The African cichlids from the Rift Lakes are highly prized for their color.

But many others are quite aggressive and are best kept singly. These can be kept in a group environment. Some South American Cichlid species are of a more amiable nature, such as the severum, angelfish, and dwarf cichlids. The cichlid family is so vast that there are many types of cichlids that make good aquarium inhabitants. Our list of cichlid types covers a wide array of species from all around the world. All these traits make cichlids a favorite aquarium fish. They are very active, intriguing, and many cichlids can be very personable, readily greeting their keepers and begging for food. These characteristics are further complimented by their remarkable behavior, highly complex yet ritualistic. The Cichlid family offers the widest variety of body shapes, a vast range of sizes, and some very beautiful coloration and patterning.

Cichlids are attractive, active, are generally quite durable fish.
