How to Deal With Aggressive African Cichlids

Cichlids are among the most fascinating and engaging of all fish for the home aquarium. Many species of cichlids actually seem to recognize their owners, coming to the front of the tank at feeding time and engaging in other unique behaviors. One problem with cichlids, however, is that they can be aggressive, both with other cichlids and with other fish in a community tank. Setting the tank up properly and keeping an eye out for problems is the best way to deal with these issues.

Things You'll Need

  • Rock work
  • Caves
  • Floating plants
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Evaluate the sizes of the fish you have relative to the aggressive cichlids in the tank. Small and timid fish are unlikely to do well in a tank filled with large and aggressive cichlids. To avoid problems, the best strategy is to move the smaller and more timid fish to their own tank.

    • 2

      Arrange large rocks in the tank to create caves and hiding places for the fish in the tank. Place sets of rock caves throughout the aquarium so that each fish can set up its own territory and enjoy a safe and secure place to hide.

    • 3

      Use floating plants to provide cover and protection for smaller fish and newly hatched fry. These floating plants can be live species like Java moss, or they can be plastic plants designed to flow on the surface of the water.

    • 4

      Purchase breeding pairs of cichlids instead of a single fish or two fish of the same sex. A breeding pair will often set up its own territory within the tank and leave other fish alone unless they try to enter that territory. Some species of cichlids are easy to sex, while others are more difficult. Engage the assistance of the pet store owner to find a suitable mated pair.

    • 5

      Watch for signs that other fish in the tank are being harassed or harmed. Things like torn fins and erratic swimming are cause for alarm. If the cichlids in the tank are continuously harassing the other fish, it is best to set up one cichlid-only tank and another community tank.