Cichlids are a type of fish that many people have in their aquariums at home. Although they are a great pet for your aquarium, they can get rather aggressive to other fish. This short article is written to let you know how you can set up a tank for aggressive Cichlids if you are really thinking about buying a couple. Here are just a few things that you may need to look into to when buying this species of fish.
These fish are known to be aggressive towards others because they are territorial. These fish like to claim a territory for their own, so when setting up a tank with a couple of these in it, it is important that you buy a large enough tank with plenty of space in it.
As these fish are aggressive it is said that when buying, you should place two females to one male. The reason for this is because if you have one on one, or two males on one female, you will find that the female will be constantly annoyed by the male or males and will eventually get sick and die. So when buying, see if you can buy 2 females to one male.
When setting up your tank for these fish, you may need to research the environment of the type that yours is used to. For example, African Cichlids like caves and rocks to claim and live with minimal plants, while others like environments of heavy plants.
When you have worked out what type, and have decorated the tank to your fish's needs, then you can check your pH level for the right water for your fish. Due to the fact that different Cichlids have different pH needs, it is important to work out which type of fish you have and ask the fish store, or research the internet for the levels that you need. PH levels are important because without the right levels your fish will die. Test kits can be bought if you are unsure as to the levels of your water.
A filter is the next part when it comes to any aquarium. A proper filter will help keep the water regulating, and keep it clean at the same time. Without a filter you would have to do a water change daily, but with a good one, a weekly change of water is all that it needed. When changing the water it is important to only change about 20 to 30 percent as any more will stress the fish out and kill them.
A good heater is required when it comes to these fish. These fish tend to like heated waters, so setting the heater according to your type of Cichlids will help them stay happy and not stressed. If you are not sure as to the temperature of what yours has to be, then asking your local pet store may be the best place to start.
So if you have aggressive Cichlids, then it is best to have plenty of space for them to move around in. Without this you will find that the fish will become stressed and die due to being terrorized from dominate or aggressive fish.
If you would like to learn more about controlling aggressive Cichlids in your tank, visit my site African Cichlid Success.
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