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African Cichlid
IntermediateColorful cichlids from Lakes Malawi and Tanganyika. Marine-like beauty in freshwater. Active and full of personality.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
22〜28℃
Lifespan
5-10 years
Size
8-30cm (varies by species)
Diet
Cichlid pellets
About
African cichlids are a diverse assemblage of cichlid fish native to the Rift Valley lakes of eastern Africa — primarily Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Victoria. These ancient lakes, isolated for millions of years, became sites of explosive adaptive radiation, producing hundreds to thousands of endemic species in each, making them landmark examples of evolution. Their colors rival those of marine reef fish — vivid blues, yellows, reds, and oranges — earning them the nickname 'freshwater coral reef fish.' Body size ranges from 8 to over 30 cm depending on species. All require alkaline, hard water (pH 7.5–8.5) and a rocky aquascape replicating their natural habitat. Territorial aggression is intense; successful community keeping typically involves overstocking to distribute aggression or combining equally boisterous species of similar size. Many species are mouthbrooders — females incubate eggs and guard fry inside their mouths — one of the most remarkable parental behaviors in freshwater fish.
Basic Info
Origin
Rift Valley lakes of eastern Africa (Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Victoria)
Lifespan
5-10 years
Size
8-30cm (varies by species)
Temperature
22〜28℃
Diet
Cichlid pellets
Care Guide
Tank
60cm+. Rocky aquascape
Care Specifications
Aggressive
Sources: Aquarium Source
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
African Cichlid Listings
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