What tank cleaners can live with cichlids?

The best algae eater for the African cichlid tank is without a doubt, the ancistrus sp. Even though they are originally from south America, it is one of the only algae eaters that can adapt to the African cichlid’s water parameters as well as their behavior.

What is special about cichlids?

Cichlids are an extremely diverse family of fishes, most of which are found in rift lakes in Africa. There are more than 500 species in just three lakes: Victoria, Malawi, and Tanganyika. Most are specialized feeders, which allows many different types to live together without much competition.

Can you put an algae eater with cichlids?

When it comes to algae eaters that can handle their own against aggressive African Cichlids and can also do well in African Cichlid water parameters, a Pleco is your best bet…but not just any Pleco.

What are tank cleaner fish called?

The two most commonly used cleaner fish are the lumpfish, Cyclopterus lumpus, and the ballan wrasse Labrus bergeylta.

Can I keep cichlids with other fish?

Found worldwide in freshwater environments, cichlids are a diverse family of fishes, but all of them are aggressive. Cichlid tanks are best limited to cichlids only, and only cichlids from the same continent should be housed together. A few species of catfish and plecostomus can get along with cichlids.

Can cichlids live with guppies?

While many cichlids are notorious for their aggression, several small dwarf cichlids make good companions for guppies. Rams see guppies as “dither fish,” which means when a ram sees guppies swimming out in the open, it makes them feel safe and less likely to hide in the recesses of the aquarium.

What can you mix with cichlids?

This includes South American cichlids like the ram and checkerboard dwarf cichlid, and certain African river cichlids like the krib. These fish will generally get along with any fish that doesn’t pick on or bully them. They get along well with most species of tetra. Corydoras catfish also make great tankmates.

Can you keep cichlids from Lake Malawi in the same tank?

Also, it is not advisable to keep African Cichlids from Lake Tanganyika in the same tank with those from Lake Malawi. The two species thrive well in different aquatic environments. Fish Compatible with African Cichlids These species of fish don’t get along well with many fish when they are placed in the same tank.

What kind of fish can I put in my African cichlid tank?

African Red-Eyed Tetra (Arnoldichthys spilopterus) is another fish that can cohabit pretty well with the African Cichlid. The fish can grow fairly larger, hence the need to prepare a bigger tank that can give it enough room to swim from one corner to the other.

What should I look for in a cichlid tank?

Most cichlids are bottom-dwellers, so it is important to choose a tank that has a large surface area. In addition, cichlids tend to be messy eaters, so pick tanks that are appropriately sized to keep water parameters in check.

What kind of food do cichlids like to eat?

While some of them like to feed on algae, others prefer insects and small fish. When sleeping, cichlids don’t close their eyes and this a common fact in almost all fish apart from sharks. So, don’t be surprised to find them sleeping while they seem to be looking at you.