Cichlids are species of fish from family of Cichlidae, there are several species of cichlid fish by size, shape, environment in which they live and thrive, color, eating habits and even temperament. Some examples of cichlid fish species such as Jack Dempsey, Oscar, Angel Fish, and others.
Cichlids are attractive, active, are generally quite durable fish. The Cichlid family offers the widest variety of body shapes, a vast range of sizes, and some very beautiful coloration and patterning. These characteristics are further complimented by their remarkable behavior, highly complex yet ritualistic. They are very active, intriguing, and many cichlids can be very personable, readily greeting their keepers and begging for food. All these traits make cichlids a favorite aquarium fish.
Within the over 1,900 species of cichlids, you can find the cichlid species which have increased popularity among aquarium lovers across the world. There are several factors behind their reputation. A few really are well-loved because of the beautiful visual appeal, whilst others for being hardy cichlid varieties which have been simple to breed, feed and keep.
Cichlid Species: Jack Dempsey
Jack Dempsey cichlids are an easy to breed cichlid species and feed and can live up to 10 years. It is their stunning coloration that piques people’s interest. When they are young, Jack Dempsey cichlids show a tan or light gray color with some turquoise specks. As they mature, their colors turns purple gray with some blue and green highlights while its specks turn gold.
Cichlid Species: Convict cichlid (Archocentrus nigrofasciatus)
This species of cichlid is a good fish for beginners because of its small size and its ease in keeping and breeding. They are not fussy about food or water conditions. When keeping convict cichlids, one needs to recreate their original habitat, putting in rocks and artificial caves-they’ll eventually use these for breeding-into the aquarium. They tend to burrow intothe substrate, so external filtration is best for this cichlid species.
Cichlid Species: Oscar fish (Astronotus ocellatus)
Also called Oscar, tiger oscar, velvet cichlid, or marble cichlid, the oscar fish comes from South Americaand have even been considered food fish. Hardy and tough, they can tolerate a wide range of water conditions and high toxin levels. This fast-growing fish (it can grow beyond 18 inches) will eat a range of food, including pellets, live food, and flakes. Make sure you feed themenough live food so they stay healthy and their colors stay bright.
Cichlid Species: Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
Originating from the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo rivers in South America, the angelfish has become one of the more popular cichlid species because of its unique, elegant appearance, inquisitive nature, and mild-mannered disposition.
Cichlid Species: Blood Parrots
The Blood Parrots have a very small mouth and a roundish "balloon" shaped body. Perhaps they are called Parrotfish because their nose looks like a 'parrots' beak. They can be solid or have a "calico" patterning or blotching., are available in a variety of colors. They range from basic pale or bright yellows, to oranges and reds. Dyed fish sport purples, pinks, blues, and more colors. These are generally sold as the 'Jellybean Parrot' and 'Bumble Gum Parrot' though there are also names that describe them by their color such as 'Purple Parrot'. Then there are Blood Parrots described by their physical appearance such as the 'Love Heart Parrot' which has no tail fin.
Cichlid Species: Flowerhorn Cichlid
The Flowerhorn Cichlid is a great fish for those who are looking for a unique and large cichlid. They are very interested in their environment and those who purchase them fall in love. Purchasing a juvenile for a particular look is risky though, as they haven't yet developed their adult coloration. If you are looking for a specific pattern make sure you buy an adult, or buy several juveniles and hope one looks like what you want as an adult. But even obtaining just one juvenile, you can still end up with a beautiful fish.
