African Hybrid Cichlids Diseases

For many aquarium enthusiasts, African hybrid cichlids are a "must have." These hardy fish are bold, colorful and easy to care for. No matter how carefully you monitor and maintain an aquarium, however, African hybrid cichlids are likely to pick up a disease at some point. With quick identification and treatment, there shouldn't be any lasting ill effects.

  1. Malawi Bloat

    • Malawi bloat is also known as "African cichlid disease." This particular disease is usually marked by a distended stomach. This distension progresses to a point where the stomach actually appears cylindrical. Rare cases involve scales that actually appear to "stand out" from the fish, according to Phil Benes and Terry Ranson of the Greater Cincinnati Aquarium Society. Treatment for Malawi bloat involves a broad-spectrum antibiotic. However, prevention is actually the key. Over-feeding tends to trigger Malawi bloat. Rather than feeding hybrids on a daily basis, it's advisable to feed every other day. Frequent water changes---usually a 50-percent water change completed weekly---helps prevent Malawi bloat.

    Fin Rot

    • Fins that turn white and draw back indicate fin rot. In most cases, this is caused by damage from another fish, usually after a fight between cichlids. African hybrids tend to develop fin rot more than the non-hybrids, due to the hybrid's more aggressive nature. Fin rot can also be caused by poor water conditions. To cure, remove any particularly aggressive cichlids with fin rot from the tank then change out 25 percent of the water and add a teaspoon of salt per gallon of water. This usually resolves the situation. Healing typically takes place within 48 hours.

    Dropsy ("Edema")

    • It's important to understand that dropsy isn't really a disease on its own. Rather, it's a symptom. A cichlid with dropsy appears swollen, usually around the abdomen. From overhead, the cichlid's shape may resemble a pine cone. Cichlids with dropsy are treated with metronidazole, according to Dr. Neale Monks, a respected English zoologist. Unfortunately, by the time dropsy makes an appearance, the treatment may prove ineffective.

    Black Spot

    • The blood parrot African hybrid cichlid is particularly susceptible to black spot. Black spot is typically marked by black spots on the fins. This condition is typically caused by poor water conditions, but usually clears up on its own after the hybrid has been placed in a recovery tank with properly maintained water.