Choosing the Right African Cichlids for Your Aquarium

There are over 2000 African cichlid species and they are famously known for their vibrant colours, unique behaviour, and territorial nature, making them an attractive choice for aquarium enthusiasts. However, choosing the right African cichlids for your tank requires careful planning to ensure compatibility and a harmonious environment. This guide will help you understand the key factors in selecting African cichlids for your aquarium and provide some recommended species to get you started.

Tank Size

Before selecting any fish, it’s crucial to consider the size of your tank. African cichlids are active swimmers and need plenty of space. A minimum of 55 gallons (about 200 litres) is recommended for most African cichlid setups, but you could get away with a slightly smaller tank with some African dwarf cichlid species. Larger tanks provide more room for territory and can help reduce aggression.

Small tanks (under 150 Litres)

Stick with dwarf species like Neolamprologus multifasciatus or shell-dwellers, better suited for smaller spaces.

Medium tanks (under 300 Litres)

You can house species from Lake Tanganyika or Malawi, such as Pseudotropheus or Labidochromis caeruleus.

Large tanks (over 300 Litres)

Bigger tanks allow for a variety of species, including some of the larger, more aggressive types like Aulonocara and Haplochromis.

Lake of Origin

African cichlids are primarily found in three major lakes: Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Victoria. Each lake has unique species with varying behaviours and requirements.

Lake Malawi

Known for colourful Mbuna (rock-dwellers) and Malawi cichlids are some of the most popular in the hobby. Examples include *Pseudotropheus*, *Melanochromis*, and *Aulonocara*. *Mbuna* species tend to be more aggressive, so it’s essential to choose tank mates carefully.

Lake Tanganyika

These cichlids are often more territorial but tend to be less aggressive compared to their Malawi counterparts. Species like Neolamprologus, Julidochromis, and Tropheus are popular choices. Many Tanganyikan species are smaller and prefer rocky setups or shells, making them ideal for more specialised tanks.

Lake Victoria

This lake has fewer species available in the aquarium trade, but they are no less beautiful. Species like Haplochromis are popular, but they can be quite aggressive, so tank size and careful selection of tank mates are essential

Behaviour and Compatibility

African cichlids are territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. To minimize aggression, it’s important to stock your tank with fish that have similar temperaments and environmental needs.

Overcrowding, while counterintuitive, can sometimes reduce aggression by preventing any single fish from establishing a large territory.As we know, African cichlids are territorial.

Adding plenty of rocks, caves, and plants (real or artificial) will create separate territories and hiding spots to minimise confrontation.

Adding fast-moving, non-aggressive fish can act as “dither fish,” which distract aggressive cichlids and help break up fights. Some have much success with a school of Giant Danios because they dominate the upper part of the tank, however precaution must be taken to prevent accidents.

With some more aggressive African cichlid species, having more females per male can reduce competition for mates.

When adding new fish to your established African Cichlid tank, rearrange the decor to disrupt existing territories. This helps create a more balanced environment, allowing newcomers to acclimate without immediately having to defend themselves.

Colour and Appearance

One of the primary reasons people choose African cichlids is their striking colours. From electric yellows to deep blues and reds, the variety is vast.

Peacock cichlids (Aulonocara):

Known for their brilliant metallic colours, including shades of blue, red, and orange, Peacocks are less aggressive and can be combined with other peaceful species.

Mbuna cichlids

These are typically more solid-coloured, with vibrant yellows, blues, and blacks being common. Species like the Red Empress Cichlid (Protomelas similis) are among the most colourful with their rainbow-like hues of yellow, red and orange, with a bluey-green metallic head.

Hap cichlids

Haps offer a mix of patterns and colors and tend to grow larger than Mbuna. Species like *Copadichromis borleyi* are good options for larger tanks.

Aquascaping for African Cichlids

Cichlids from African lakes thrive in environments that mimic their natural habitats. For Lake Malawi and Tanganyika species, rocky setups are ideal as they provide hiding places and territories. Consider using stacked rocks, caves, and other decorations that allow the fish to establish their own territories.

Actual footage of Lake Malawi – Sandy substrates and large and smooth river rocks.

Rock dwellers (Mbuna, Julidochromis) – These fish require a lot of hiding places, so a rocky aquascape is essential.

Open water swimmers (Haps, Peacocks) – These species appreciate more swimming space, so leave plenty of open areas while still providing some cover for shy fish.

Recommended African Cichlid Species

Labidochromis caeruleus (Yellow Lab)

A peaceful Mbuna species, endemic to the central western coastal region of Lake Malawi in East Africa, that works well in mixed tanks.

Aulonocara jacobfreibergi (Peacock)

A less aggressive cichlid with stunning colours.

Neolamprologus brichardi

A Tanganyika species known for its interesting behavior and striking appearance.

Cynotilapia afra

An aggressive but small Mbuna, ideal for colourful, species-specific tanks.

Julidochromis transcriptus

A peaceful Tanganyika cichlid that thrives in rocky setups.

Aulonocara jacobfreibergi

Lemon Jake originating from Undu Reef on the Tanzania side of Lake Malawi

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right African cichlids for your tank involves balancing aggression, tank size, and aquascaping needs. By researching the species from each lake, you can create a vibrant and dynamic cichlid community that thrives. Monitoring your tank closely after introducing new fish is recommended, as African cichlids can be unpredictable, and adjustments may be needed to maintain harmony.

With the correct setup, African cichlids will provide endless enjoyment and a dazzling display of colours in your aquarium.

Do you keep African Cichlids? What do you love most about them? Share your experiences with us in the comments below.