Facts About Dwarf Cichlids

"Cichlid" is a category of fish that encompasses hundreds of species. Cichlids that are 12 centimeters or shorter, from nose to tail, are considered dwarf cichlids. Most dwarf cichlids come from South America or Africa. If kept in a stable environment that resembles their natural habitat, dwarf cichlids can provide years of companionship as pets.

  1. Physical Characteristics

    • Dwarf cichlids grow to no more than 12 centimeters in length, and are usually closer to 10 centimeters. Many dwarf cichlids come from the genus Apistogramma, which includes at least 80 known species. Apistogramma males are typically 8 centimeters or shorter. The females are about half that size. The average lifespan of a dwarf cichlid is between one and three years. Cichlids spawn by laying eggs and sexual maturity takes place at six or seven months.

    Temperament

    • Dwarf cichlids are excellent fish to put into a community tank. They show little aggression toward other species, and co-exist happily with one another -- for the most part. They have the capability to develop darker tendencies, however. Brooding cichlid females have been known to kill their spouses. Sub-dominant cichlids have been harassed and killed by their peers. To prevent situations like these, monitor the social interactions between your cichlids and separate them into different tanks, if necessary.

    Habitat

    • Most dwarf cichlids kept as pets come from one of three regions: the Amazon River system in Guyana, the Venezuela River system in Orinoco and the Parana River system in both Paraguay and Uruguay. Another common dwarf cichlid, the Kribensis cichlid, hails from the Niger River Delta in West Africa. An aquarium for Kribensis cichlids should include lots of plants and hiding places, since this resembles their natural habitat. Study the pH levels for the particular water habitat of your dwarf cichlid, so you can simulate them in the tank.

    Breeding

    • Breeding dwarf cichlids is as simple as putting two adult cichlids of the same species into the tank together, though it can be difficult to discern the gender of a dwarf cichlid. Sub-dominant males often adopt the coloration of females in order to hide from dominant males. Cichlids from the species Crenicara punctulatum have even been known to change gender, from breeding females to breeding males. When your dwarf cichlid spawns, however, that is a sure sign she is female. Harvest the eggs as soon after spawning as possible, since some species of dwarf cichlid have a tendency to eat their young.