What do South American cichlids like in their tank?
The water flow should be gentle and water quality high. These fish also need plenty of space and hides to avoid more boisterous tankmates, which is why many South American cichlid aquariums feature live plants and driftwood. Tannin-stained, dark water is recommended or even a must for many species.
How big do South American cichlids get?
Most large species found in the hobby grow to a moderate size, and are readily suited to a medium or large home aquarium. Many range in size from about 6-12” (15-30 cm) for adult males. The term “dwarf cichlids” applies to much smaller cichlids that only reach up to about 4 inches (10 cm) or so.
What South American cichlids can live together?
Dwarf Cichlid Dwarf Cichlids can easily live with South American cichlids such as Discus and Angelfish.
Do South American cichlids need plants?
Generally speaking, because cichlids tend to move the substrate about, such as when nesting, it’s advantageous to have plants that will grow on rocks or other decorative elements.
What fish go well with South American cichlids?
They should be placed together with peaceful fish like guppies, tetra, or Angelfish, avoiding territorial larger species such as larger cichlids, betta fish, or carnivorous fish.
What kind of water do South American cichlids need?
South American cichlids, on the other hand, tend to inhabit soft, more acidic waters with pH from 6.5 to 7.4. Water temperature ranges from mid-60’s to well above 84° F, depending on location, although most species do best between 75° and 80° F.
How do you set up a South American cichlid tank?
What do I put in my South and Central American Cichlids tank?
- If you will be using an under-gravel filter, add it first.
- Layer about 2 to 3 inches (5-8 cm) of gravel on the bottom of the tank (that works out to 1½ pounds of gravel per gallon of water).
- Fill the tank about halfway up with dechlorinated water.
How long do South American cichlids live?
In South American rainforests, there is a group of small fish, usually called dwarf cichlids. These cichlids are only about 0.5 inches long….Cichlid Facts & Overview.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Lifespan: | Up to 20 years (species dependent) |
| Size: | 3–15 inches |
| Diet: | Species dependent |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
What is the difference between African cichlids and South American cichlids?
The key difference between African and South American Cichlids is that the African cichlids live in freshwaters originating from three great lakes of Africa while South American cichlids live in the freshwaters of South and Central America including the Arizona river.
Can I mix African cichlids with South American?
So there you have it guys, technically you’re not supposed to mix African Cichlids with American Cichlids, but you can twist the rules sometimes and make some exceptions. My tank is not the first tank to do it either, I’ve seen plenty out there with some crazy mixes that technically shouldn’t work but somehow they do.