Assorted Malawi Cichlid 4.5-5cm

Assorted Malawi Cichlid

African cichlids have become one of the most beloved fish in the aquarium hobby with aquarists often dedicating entire large scale fish-rooms to keep all the different colours and species available. Almost looking like a fish that came directly from a saltwater reef system the African cichlids glow with their varying colours and attract so many budding aquarists into the hobby with their personality, elegance, and behaviour. Malawi cichlids are a great entry into the cichlid world however are not the greatest beginner fish due to the fact that some can reach 10-13 cm and have quite aggressive behaviour.

As their name suggests the wild root of these fish is Lake Malawi in Africa however because of their incredible popularity, they are commonly captive-bred bred and as a result of this there are plethora of colour varieties now. Some of these include albino, bright red, orange, sapphire blue and yellow, they also have a wide range of patterning such as stripes, spots, mottling, and more. It can actually be a difficult task trying to select individual species of African cichlids due to how many options there are which is why the team at LiveFish has created this assorted option. This is great as it allows for a random selection of different coloured and shaped fish. Because they are captive bred these cichlids can easily tolerate aquarium conditions with a temperature range from 24-28 degrees and a PH of 7.0 to 8.5.

These African cichlids would be the best fish to have in a species-only aquarium which will really highlight their colours which is usually the setting these fish are kept in by many aquarists. Breeding African cichlids is very much possible as they breed quite readily in the home aquarium. Females tend to have more muted colours and stay smaller compared to males. Females are also mouth brooders meaning they will carry eggs in their mouth and release fully formed baby fry.

Tank Recommendations for your Assorted Malawi Cichlid

Malawi cichlids can range in size but this assortment mainly contains species that reach a maximum size of around 10cm however there are instances where dominant males can grow to sizes of 15cm. Because of this and their territorial nature, it is best to keep them in an aquarium no smaller than 540 litres with a decent footprint. A 120cm long x 60cm wide x 60 tall aquarium would be a great option as it is readily available however a larger tank would always be better. These African cichlids do also use all parts of the aquarium which is why it is best to have a great footprint in all directions.

African cichlids are fairly territorial but they can be successfully kept together as long as there is enough space and visual breaks in the aquarium to avoid any long-term aggression. Creating structures from hardscapes such as caves and walls is great as it allows for small territories to be established. If there is any ongoing aggression these can simply be re-arranged during a water change which keeps the fish occupied with their environment rather than each other.

Due to their alkaline water requirements, it is best to use aquascape materials which will increase the PH of the water, substrate like aragonite sand or crushed coral along with rock such as Texas holey or Seriyu stone is best. African peacocks are not plant-safe as they generally eat or end up shredding plants in the tank however there is a chance they will be fine with tough species such as anubias or java fern.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The African cichlids are a fish that is best kept in a species-only setting as it really accentuates their beauty however they can be easily kept with similar-sized African cichlids.

Usually Compatible

Other Lake African cichlids such as species from Tanganyika or Victoria.

Sometime Compatible

Smaller African cichlids such as black calvus, jullidochromis, and lemon cichlids, and anything slightly more aggressive like frontosa or Tetrocephalus cichlids.

Rarely Compatible

Any South American cichlids or fish that do not tolerate the water parameters and requirements of the African peacocks.

Feeding your Assorted Malawi Cichlids

African cichlids are very easy fish to feed in an aquarium setting as they take to a wide range of aquarium foods. Due to their primarily herbivorous nature, it is best to feed them a pellet that is higher in green content which is easily digested. Any foods with particularly high fillers or protein can lead to these cichlids being bloated. A great staple food would be a soft, sinking pellet that is targeted towards African cichlids.