Information on African Cichlids

African cichlids are a group of fish species that originate in Africa. These fish come in many patterns, colors and sizes. These fish can be kept as pets, and used as a food source for humans and animals.

  1. Diversity

    • There are estimated to be 1,300 to 3,000 species of cichlids that are known.

    Origination

    • All cichlids originate from one of three main lakes in Africa: the Malawi, Victoria and Tanganyika.

    Characteristics

    • When kept as aquarium fish, cichlids are extremely aggressive and cannot be kept with many other species of fish.

    Distribution

    • Cichlids are freshwater fish and can be found on nearly every continent, though the numbers are low in Asia.

    Feeding

    • Cichlids' diets are extremely variable and based on species. Some are strictly herbivorous, some carnivorous and some omnivorous.

    Parental Care

    • Most cichlids will show some care for their eggs and larvae.