Tools for Cichlid Tanks

Cichlids are medium-sized semi-aggressive fish that can be safely housed in small groups. Most species in the pet trade are from the Amazon River Basin and require a warm, tropical aquarium environment. Although these fish are relatively hardy, proper husbandry is vital to maintaining fish health. With the right tools, a cichlid aquarium can function as a miniature ecosystem that requires only minimal intervention and treatment.

  1. Aquarium Set-Up

    • Cichlids can quickly grow aggressive and stressed in tanks that are too small. A 20- to 30-gallon tank can house fish fry, but adult fish require a minimum of 55 gallons for three to four fish. Your fish should have plenty of room to swim and should be able to avoid other fish if they want to. Glass tanks are generally the easiest choice because they are unlikely to collapse under the weight of the water.

    Heating and Lighting

    • Cichlids require water ranging in temperature from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, so check the care instructions for your particular variety of cichlids. In most cases, cichlids require an aquarium heater. Install a floating thermometer and regularly monitor the aquarium temperature. Cichlids require 12 to 14 hours of light per day, but do not need particularly bright or intense light. They do, however, benefit from artificial UV light, which mimics the sun's rays. A fluorescent aquarium light that emits UV rays or a clamp lamp with low full-spectrum lighting both work well for this purpose.

    Filtration and Cleaning

    • Water quality is the single most important determinant of cichlid health, according to the "Pocket Professional Guide to Cichlids." All tanks should have a filter to keep the water moving and clean, and you should drain and replace 10 to 15 percent of the tank water every other week. An air stone helps to maintain tank oxygen levels. Use pH testing strips to ensure proper pH balance. Cichlids naturally live in alkaline water, so pH levels ranging from 7.5 to 8.5 are ideal. An aquarium net can help you catch fish when necessary and remove fish when you clean the entire tank.

    Substrate

    • Cichlids do not require a substrate, but proper substrate can help the aquarium to appear cleaner and provide a naturalistic setting. Avoid grainy substrates such as sand. River rocks and gravel are acceptable substrates for cichlids, but if you notice your fish eating the substrate, remove it immediately. Some substrates can alter the pH level in your tank, so if the pH is too low, consider purchasing a substrate designed to raise the pH.