What Are Cichlids – ? The Ultimate Guide To The World’S Most Diverse
Have you ever walked into a local fish store and been mesmerized by a tank full of vibrant, intelligent, and incredibly active fish? If so, you were likely looking at members of the Cichlidae family.
If you are asking yourself what are cichlids, you aren’t alone—this family contains over 1,500 scientifically described species, each with unique personalities and specific care needs.
I remember my first pair of Kribensis cichlids; watching them guard their fry with such fierce devotion changed my entire perspective on fish keeping. In this guide, we will explore their world together.
We will cover everything from their fascinating biology and geographic origins to the practical steps you need to take to keep them thriving in your own home aquarium.
By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what are cichlids and whether these charismatic fish are the right choice for your next aquatic project.
Understanding What are Cichlids: Taxonomy and Physical Traits
To truly grasp the essence of these fish, we have to look at what sets them apart from other species like tetras or barbs. Cichlids are part of the Cichlidae family, a group of ray-finned fish found in almost every tropical corner of the globe.
The most defining characteristic of a cichlid is not their color or size, but their pharyngeal jaws. This is a second set of jaws located in their throat, allowing them to process food in ways other fish simply cannot.
This specialized anatomy allows different species to evolve highly specific diets, from scraping algae off rocks to hunting smaller fish with surgical precision.
Another key trait is their single nostril on each side of the head, whereas most fish have two. This unique sensory setup helps them navigate their often complex and crowded environments.
Don’t let the technical terms intimidate you! To most hobbyists, what are cichlids simply means “fish with big personalities.” They are often described as the “dogs of the aquatic world” because they can learn to recognize their owners.
The Great Geographic Divide: African vs. American Cichlids
When you start researching cichlids, you will quickly realize the hobby is divided into two major camps: African and American. Understanding this distinction is vital for your success.
African cichlids primarily come from the three Great Rift Lakes: Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Victoria. These lakes are famous for their hard, alkaline water and rocky underwater landscapes.
Lake Malawi is home to the famous Mbuna (rock-dwellers) and Peacock cichlids. These fish are known for their neon-bright colors that rival saltwater reef fish.
On the other hand, American cichlids are found in Central and South America. They typically prefer softer, more acidic water, often stained with tannins from fallen leaves and driftwood.
This group includes the massive and “personable” Oscar, the elegant Angelfish, and the stunning Discus. Each of these requires a very different water chemistry compared to their African cousins.
It is generally not recommended to mix these two groups. Their water requirements and social “languages” are so different that keeping them together often leads to stress or territory battles.
Intelligence and Social Behavior: The Cichlid Personality
One of the most rewarding aspects of keeping cichlids is observing their complex social structures. Unlike many schooling fish that swim aimlessly, cichlids are constantly “doing” something.
They are highly territorial. In the wild, a cichlid’s territory is its lifeline for food and breeding. In your tank, they will defend their “spot” with vigor, which is why what are cichlids is a question often followed by “are they aggressive?”
The answer is yes, they can be, but this aggression is manageable if you understand their needs. It is actually a sign of their high intelligence and survival instincts.
Cichlids also exhibit some of the most advanced parental care in the fish world. Many species are mouthbrooders, meaning the mother (or sometimes the father) carries the eggs in their mouth to keep them safe.
Others are substrate spawners, meticulously cleaning a flat rock or leaf to lay their eggs. They will then fan the eggs with their fins to provide oxygen and guard the fry from any intruders.
Watching a pair of cichlids lead their cloud of babies around the tank is one of the most heartwarming sights you can experience in this hobby. It makes all the maintenance worth it!
Essential Tank Requirements for Success
Because cichlids are so diverse, there is no “one size fits all” tank setup. However, there are some universal rules you should follow to ensure your fish stay healthy.
First, you need to consider tank size. Many beginner cichlids, like the German Blue Ram, can live in a 20-gallon tank. However, larger species like Oscars or Jack Dempseys need at least 55 to 75 gallons.
Filtration is another non-negotiable. Cichlids are messy eaters and produce a significant amount of waste. I always recommend a filter rated for a tank larger than the one you actually have.
For African cichlids, you will want plenty of rockwork (like Texas Holey Rock or Seiryu Stone) to create caves and crevices. This helps break up lines of sight and reduces fighting.
For South American species, focus on driftwood, Amazon Sword plants, and a sandy substrate. Many of these fish love to sift through the sand looking for bits of food.
Don’t forget about water temperature! Most cichlids are tropical and require a stable heater set between 76°F and 82°F. Sudden swings in temperature can lead to Ich or other stress-related illnesses.
Dietary Needs and Feeding Strategies
Feeding cichlids is relatively easy, but you must be mindful of their specific nutritional requirements. Because they have those specialized throat jaws, their diets can vary wildly.
Herbivorous cichlids, particularly the Mbuna from Lake Malawi, require a diet high in vegetable matter. Feeding them too much animal protein can lead to a fatal condition called “Malawi Bloat.”
For these fish, high-quality spirulina flakes or pellets are the way to go. You can even supplement their diet with blanched zucchini or cucumber as a healthy treat.
Carnivorous and omnivorous cichlids, like Oscars or Angelfish, thrive on a mix of high-protein pellets, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp. They are enthusiastic eaters!
I find that feeding smaller amounts twice a day is better than one large feeding. This keeps their energy levels stable and prevents excess food from rotting and polluting your water.
Pro tip: Always look for foods that list a high-quality protein source (like whole fish meal or shrimp) as the first ingredient. Avoid fillers like “corn gluten” whenever possible.
Popular Cichlid Species for Beginners
If you are new to the world of cichlids, you might feel overwhelmed by the thousands of options. Here are a few “starter” species that are relatively hardy and full of character.
1. The Convict Cichlid: These are arguably the hardiest cichlids in the world. They are easy to breed (sometimes too easy!) and have striking black and silver stripes.
2. The Kribensis: A beautiful dwarf cichlid from Africa that is much more peaceful than its rift-lake cousins. They have stunning purple bellies and do well in planted tanks.
3. The Electric Blue Blue Ram: While slightly more sensitive to water quality, these South American dwarfs are breathtakingly beautiful and fit perfectly in smaller community setups.
4. Yellow Lab (Labidochromis caeruleus): If you want to try African Rift Lake cichlids, this is the one. They are much less aggressive than other Mbuna and have a bright, cheery yellow color.
5. Angelfish: Many people don’t realize that the graceful Angelfish is actually a cichlid! They bring a touch of elegance to any tall aquarium and are generally peaceful with larger tankmates.
Managing Aggression in the Cichlid Tank
One of the biggest hurdles for new keepers is managing the “tough guy” attitude of these fish. But don’t worry—there are several expert tricks to keep the peace.
The most common method for African cichlids is overstocking. By having a higher density of fish, no single individual can be singled out and bullied. This spreads the aggression across the whole group.
However, overstocking requires heavy-duty filtration and frequent water changes to keep the nitrogen cycle in check. It’s a balancing act that requires diligence.
For American cichlids, the strategy is usually the opposite: space and structure. Provide enough room for each fish to claim a territory, and use tall plants or wood to block their view of one another.
Always have a “plan B.” If you notice a fish is being bullied constantly or has nipped fins, you should have a small quarantine tank ready to give them a break and a chance to heal.
Remember, a little bit of chasing is normal. It’s part of how they establish their “pecking order.” You only need to intervene if you see physical damage or if a fish is hiding 24/7 and refusing to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cichlids
Are cichlids hard to keep?
Not necessarily! While some species like Discus require very specific water parameters, many others like Convicts or Firemouths are quite hardy. Success comes down to research and consistency.
Can cichlids live with other fish?
It depends on the species. Dwarf cichlids can often live in community tanks with tetras or rasboras. However, larger or more aggressive cichlids are usually best kept in a “species-only” or “cichlid-only” environment.
What is the best substrate for cichlids?
Sand is generally the best choice. Many cichlids are “earth-eaters” (like the Geophagus genus) and love to dig. Gravel can sometimes be too sharp or get stuck in their mouths during their natural digging behavior.
Why is my cichlid changing color?
Cichlids are masters of communication through color. They may brighten up when they are ready to breed or turn dull when they are stressed or sleeping. It’s their way of talking to you and their tankmates!
Can I keep shrimp with cichlids?
This is a common question at Aquifarm. Generally, most cichlids will see shrimp as a tasty snack. If you want to keep them together, stick to very small dwarf cichlids and provide massive amounts of moss and hiding places for the shrimp.
Ready to Start Your Cichlid Journey?
Exploring what are cichlids is the first step toward one of the most rewarding experiences in the aquarium hobby. These fish offer a level of interaction and beauty that is truly hard to match.
Whether you choose the shimmering blues of a Lake Malawi setup or the mossy, mysterious world of a South American river tank, you are in for an incredible adventure.
Don’t be afraid of their reputation for being “difficult.” With a good filter, the right water chemistry, and a bit of patience, you can create a thriving underwater community that will fascinate you for years.
The most important thing is to keep learning. Every species has its own story to tell, and as you gain experience, you’ll find yourself falling deeper in love with these amazing “dog-like” fish.
So, head down to your local shop, pick out a species that fits your tank size, and start your journey today. Your new favorite fish is waiting for you!
