Instructions
Maintain the aquarium water at a relatively high alkaline range. The cichlid's ideal pH level is 7.5 to 8.5 on the pH-scale. Maintaining this alkalinity is one of the most essential aspects of caring for cichlids. Never make any sudden or drastic changes to this pH level, as this will adversely affect their health. An inexpensive, yet effective way to deal with highly acidic aquarium water is to use baking soda.
Install a heater to maintain the water temperature between 73 and 83 degrees F, given that the optimum temperature is about 78 degrees F. The heater will help to minimize temperature fluctuations. If you breed your cichlids, you will need to raise the temperature, and maintain it between 80 and 82 degrees F.
Provide your cichlids with a robust filtration system to keep their watery home clean. Cichlids are hearty eaters, producing large quantities of waste products. For this reason, their aquarium should be fitted with an efficient filtration system and regular, partial water changes of about 10 percent on a weekly basis. Clean your filters on a regular basis for maximum efficiency.
Feed cichlids fish with small, but frequent portions, rather than large amounts at one time. If this is not possible due to work or other demands, then provide rocks with algal growth for periods between feedings. They eat cichlid pellets and flakes, as well as frozen and live food.
Use fluorescent lighting for your tank. This type of lighting is the best choice because it replicates the natural spectrum of their native habitat. Avoid keeping your tank lit all day, as this tends to encourage algae. Instead, limit lighting it to the evening period.
Select substrates such as gravel, limestone or coral (crushed). These not only provide visual aesthetic appeal, but also help to maintain the water's alkalinity at an optimum level. Use a gravel siphon to vacuum the gravel clean.
Reduce the cichlid's aggressive tendencies. These fish are generally territorial, particularly in a smaller, confined tank. To keep aggressive behavior in check, maintain low water temperatures, keep relatively few male cichlids, and isolate breeding pairs.
How to Take Care of Chichlids Fish
Cichlids belong to the fairly large and incredibly diverse Cichildae family, and are primarily freshwater fish. They are native to the waters of Central and South America, Africa and Asia. Since the 1940s, chichlids have risen in popularity among aquarists. They are, however, relatively demanding in their aquarium needs, and it is important to replicate and maintain similar conditions in your cichlid's aquarium as they would have in their native habitat.