African Cichlid Species

African cichlids are tropical fish that many people have as pets. In pet stores, they are sold as Red Top Zebra, Electric Blue, Red Zebra and Bumblebee. They are freshwater fish that are diverse and colorful. According to African Cichlids.org, over 1,300 species exist in varying size and color combinations.

  1. Background

    • The African cichlid originates from one of three African lakes: Lake Victoria, Lake Tanginika or Lake Malawi. Cichlids are known for their beautiful color patterns and for their ability to reproduce rapidly. They adapt quickly to new environments and require minimal care, which is why they are popular as aquarium fish. Cichlids are extremely sociable. In the wild, you often find them in crowds of at least 10 to 18 fish.

    Species

    • Because so many species of cichlids exist, collectors refer to them by many different names. Names used for cichlids typically coincide with the fish's look. For example, Electric Yellow Lab is the name given to cichlids with a lemon yellow body and jet black fins. The Peacock Cichlid has similar colors as a peacock bird. It is mostly blue and gray with blotches of orange, yellow and brown all over its body.

    Temperament

    • A cichlid's color generally determines its temperament. According to Africancichlids.org, pale fish with dull colors are more timid than bright, colorful fish. Multi-colored, tropical cichlids are usually aggressive and dominate. When cichlids are dominant, they are territorial and highly predatory. They gather together with other aggressive cichlids to hunt prey and to guard their territory.

    Keeping Cichlids as Pets

    • If you have multi-colored cichlids, you will notice their sociable, yet aggressive behavior within the confines of an aquarium. If you have multiple cichlids, the largest fish will likely be the most aggressive. If another fish tries to take over his territory, he may become aggressive with the other fish, even if it is of the cichlid species. A cichlid will attack or kill a submissive fish; however, if a larger, more dominant fish takes over his territory, he will submit.