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Noun
1. freshwater fishes of tropical America and Africa and Asia similar to American sunfishes; some are food fishes; many small ones are popular in aquariums
(synonym) cichlid fish
(hypernym) percoid fish, percoid, percoidean
(hyponym) bolti, Tilapia nilotica
(member-holonym) Cichlidae, family Cichlidae

Common Name
Black Convict Cichlid
Other Common Names
Zebra Cichlid
Scientific Name
Cichasoma nigrofasciatum
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine hrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive with their own kind and other species as well, especially during spawning. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
El Salvador-Panama: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants will be eaten by the convicts.
Breeding
The male has longer fins, and the female has orange scales on her sides. Both parents will care for the fry.
Additional Comments
Vegetation in their diet is very important to promote proper colors and growth.

Common Name
Blue Ram
Other Common Names
Butterfly Cichlid
Scientific Name
Apistogramma ramirezi
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Semi-Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and flake foods accepted on occasion.
Compatibility
Peaceful with the same sized fish, but may eat the smaller fish.
Habitat
Columbia-Venezuela: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood.
Breeding
The male has a longer dorsal fin than the female. During spawning 150-200 eggs can be produced.
Additional Comments
They have a short life span which averages 2-3 years. The Ram is sensitive to chemicals in the water, low oxygen levels, nitrites and changes in their environment.

Common Name
Bumble Bee
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Pseudothropheus crabro
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
5-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well in an African Cichlid Community. Synodontis Catfish will make a great addition to the community as bottom feeders.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Densely decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Java Fern and Java Moss are the best live plants for decoration, as they will not be demolished by the cichlids.
Breeding
Males are a dark brown almost black in color, and females are brown and yellow striped.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with fish hobbyists because of their interesting breeding habits and their bright color patterns.

Common Name
Cobalt Zebra
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Pseudothropheus species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
5-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, zucchini and lettuce. Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well in an African Cichlid Community. Synodontis Catfish will make a great addition to the community as bottom feeders.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Densely decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Java Fern and Java Moss are the best live plants for decoration, as they will not be demolished by the cichlids.
Breeding
Males have numerous egg spots on their anal fins.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with fish hobbyists because of their interesting breeding habits and their bright color patterns.

Common Name
Electric Yellow Labidochromis
Other Common Names
Yellow Labidochromis
Scientific Name
Labidochromis caeruleus
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, snails, invertebrates, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, blood worms, brine shrimp, daphnia and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablets foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and schooling species that will mix well with other africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Difference between male and female unknown.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits.

Common Name
Firemouth Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Cichasoma meeki
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
5-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive especially during spawning. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
Guatemala: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Use only hardy live potted plants, as the firemouths may uproot them.
Breeding
The anal and dorsal fins on the male are longer and end in a point. During spawning 100-500 eggs can be produced, and both parents care for the fry.
Additional Comments
They will flair out their gill covers when threatened or defending their fry.

Common Name
Gold Ram
Other Common Names
Butterfly Cichlid
Scientific Name
Apistogramma ramirezi species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Semi-Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and flake foods accepted on occasion.
Compatibility
Peaceful with the same sized fish, but may eat the smaller fish.
Habitat
Columbia-Venezuela: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood.
Breeding
The male has a longer dorsal fin than the female. During spawning 150-200 eggs can be produced.
Additional Comments
They have a short life span which averages 2-3 years. The Ram is sensitive to chemicals in the water, low oxygen levels, nitrites and changes in their environment.

Common Name
Auratus
Other Common Names
Golden Cichlid
Scientific Name
Melanochromis auratus
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3 1/2 - 4 inches
Feeding HabitsFresh spinach, peas, romaine lettuce and zucchini. Live blood worms, fish, brine shrimp, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, daphnia, plankton, beef heart, hi-pro diet, blood worms, glass worms and brine shrimp. Freeze dried and pelleted foods also accepted.
Compatibility
African community only. Will mix well with other Africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Female Auratus display the brighter coloration. Yellow on the lower half of the body with black and white stripes on the upper half. Male coloration, especially during breeding, is almost a reversal of the female's colors. The lower half of the body is black while the top half is yellow and white striped. Auratus are mouthbrooders and readily breed in the aquarium.
Additional Comments
Vegetation is very important in their diet for proper growth and coloration.

Common Name
Haplochromis Electric Blue
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Haplochromis ahli
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, blood worms, brine shrimp, daphnia and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablets foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful species that is territorial during spawning. Place in an African community only. Will mix well with other africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
The males are a brilliant blue and the females are brown or silver in color.
Additional Comments
The males can stay in their breeding color all year. African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits.

Common Name
Haplochromis Polystigma
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Haplochromis polystigma
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
8-9 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A territorial predator that will mix well with other similar sized africans, but aggressive with other fish. Synodontis Catfish are great for bottom feeder.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Moderately decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Live plants are should be in pots.
Breeding
The male has a blue face and a yellow and brown color pattern on his body, while the female has a tan and brown color pattern. They are mouthbrooders that can produce up to 20 eggs during spawning.
Additional Comments
The Polystigma is often confused with the Venustas, but they each have a distinct color pattern on their bodies.

Haplochromis Red Empress
Pseudothropheus Species
Other Common Names
Scientific Name
Pseudothropheus species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
6-8 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, daphnia, plankton, blood worms, beef heart, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well with other Africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Mouthbrooders: Males are primarily blue with red coloration and females are brown or silver in color.
Additional Comments
Vegetation is very important in their diet to promote proper growth and coloration. African Cichlids are very popular with hobbyists due to their brilliant colors and breeding habits.

Common Name
Haplochromis Venustus
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Haplochromis venustus
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
10 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach. peas. lettuce and zucchini. Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
An aggressive territorial species that is very intolerant of their own kind. Mixes well with other similar sized africans, but aggressive with other fish. Synodontis Catfish are great for bottom feeder.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Moderately decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Live plants are should be in pots.
Breeding
The males have a bright blue head and face with a yellow and brown coloration to their body pattern. The female has a tan and brown body coloration. They are mouthbrooders that can produce up to 120 eggs during spawning.
Additional Comments
Vegetation is extremely important in the diet of this species, without it they will lack body colors, become deformed and die a premature death. Often confused with the Polystigma, but each has their own distinct body pattern.

Common Name
Jack Dempsey Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Cichasoma octofasciatum
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
7-8 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive with their own kind and other species as well, especially during spawning. They will stake out territories in the aquarium. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
Guatemala: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants will be eaten by the dempseys.
Breeding
The anal and dorsal fin of the male is longer. During spawning 500-800 eggs can be produced, and both parents will care for the fry.
Additional Comments
Average life span is 8-10 years.

Common Name
Jewel Cichlid
Other Common Names
Jewel Fish
Scientific Name
Hemichromis bimaculatus
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive and territorial especially during spawning. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
Africa: Densely decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Use only hardy live potted plants, as the jewels may uproot them.
Breeding
The male has larger jewel spots on his gill plates. During spawning 200-500 eggs can be produced, and both the parents take care of the brood.
Additional Comments
Very aggressive cichlid. By keeping the aquarium densely decorated, it will help cut down on the aggression towards other fish in the aquarium.

Common Name
Johanni
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Melanochromis johannii
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Top-Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-4 1/2 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, fish, brine shrimp, insects, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, vegetable diet, hi-pro diet, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and beef heart. Freeze dried foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A territorial species that is intolerant of their own kind. Will mix well with other africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
The male has a black body with blue stripes while the female is a yellow-orange color. They are mouthbrooders that can produce 30-40 eggs during spawning.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits. The males are often confused with the Electric Blue Johanni, but the blue stripes are more brilliant on the Electric Blue Johanni.

Common Name
Kenyi
Other Common Names
None
Scientific Name
Pseudothropheus lombardoi
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-5 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, zucchini and lettuce. Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well in an African Cichlid Community. Synodontis Catfish will make a great addition to the community as bottom feeders.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Densely decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Java Fern and Java Moss are the best live plants for decoration, as they will not be demolished by the cichlids.
Breeding
Males are yellow in color and the females are blue.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with fish hobbyists because of their interesting breeding habits and their bright color patterns.

Common Name
Kribensis
Other Common Names
Purple Cichlid, Dwarf Rainbow Cichlid
Scientific Name
Pelvicachromis pulcher
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Semi-Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Bottom
Adult Length
3-4 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen daphnia, plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial, may be aggressive during spawning.
Habitat
Africa: Densely decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood.
Breeding
The male has pointed anal and dorsal fins. Female has deeper purple color on her body. During spawning 200-300 eggs can be produced, and both the parents take care of the brood.
Additional Comments
Live plants are usually not disturbed even though the fish likes to burrow. They are very sensitive to poor water conditions.

Common Name
Labeotropheus Fuelleborni
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Labeotropheus fuelleborni
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
6 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, lettuce and zucchini. Live fish, blood worms, brine shrimp, glass worms, tubifex worms, crickets and mealworms. Frozen blood worms, beef heart, plankton, hi-pro diet, vegetable diet, glass worms and brine shrimp. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A very territorial and aggressive species. Provide lots of territories for the cichlids. Synodontis Catfish make a great addition as a bottom feeder.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
The males have the egg spots on their anal fin. They are mouthbrooders.
Additional Comments
There are several color morphs available for this species. Vegetation is very important in their diet for proper growth and coloration.

Common Name
Managuense
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Cichlasoma managuense
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Bottom
Adult Length
9-11 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
An aggressive and territorial species that is intolerant of their own kind and will eat any smaller fish.
Habitat
Nicaragua-Costa Rica: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants are not recommended in the aquarium with these fish.
Breeding
The male's dorsal and anal fin are pointed. The female will care for the brood. During spawning up to 5000 yellowish colored eggs can be produced.
Additional Comments
This fish is highly respected in its native lands as a food fish

Common Name
Pike Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Crenicichla lepidota
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range

Top-Middle
Adult Length
12 inches
Feeding Habits
Juveniles prefer live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried foods also accepted. Adults will usually only eat live fish.
Compatibility
A predator that will eat any fish they can fit into their mouths, but will usually not bother fish too big to consume.
Habitat
South America: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants may be used but should be placed in pots to prevent the cichlids from digging them up.
Breeding
Unknown.
Additional Comments
Adults should be kept alone as they tend to be very territorial as they mature. Illegal in Texas.

Common Name
Pink Convict Cichlid
Other Common Names
Pink Zebra Cichlid
Scientific Name
Cichasoma nigrofasciatum species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive with their own kind and other species as well, especially during spawning. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
El Salvador-Panama: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants will be eaten by the convicts.
Breeding
The male has longer fins, and the female has orange scales on her sides. Both parents will care for the fry. Additional Comments
Additional Comments
Vegetation in their diet is very important to promote proper colors and growth.

Common Name
Rainbow Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Herotilapia Multispinosa
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-5 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, lettuce, zucchini and peas. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A territorial fish that is usually peaceful with other similar sized cichlids, unless they are breeding.
Habitat
Nicaragua: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood. They will not disturb live plants like some of the cichlids species.
Breeding
The anal and dorsal fins on the male are longer and end in a point. During spawning 700-1000 eggs can be produced, and both parents care for the fry.
Additional Comments
Their body color changes from a light yellow-gold to dark brown-black when threatened, frightened or breeding.

Common Name
Red Devil Cichlid
Other Common Names
Midas Cichlid
Scientific Name
Cichlasoma citrinellum
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
12 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, romaine lettuce and zucchini. Live fish, crustaceans, insects, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Red Devils are aggressive and territorial fish. They may be peaceful with other similar sized cichlids, unless they are breeding.
Habitat
Nicaragua: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants will be destroyed by these cichlids.
Breeding
The male develops a hump (nuchal) on his forehead. During spawning they can produce up to 300 eggs, and both parents will care for the brood.
Additional Comments
Red Devil's have different color patterns ranging from an orange, orange and black blotches and orange and white blotches.

Common Name
Rusty Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Iodotropheus sprengerae
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Top-Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3-4 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, lettuce and zucchini. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, blood worms, brine shrimp, daphnia and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablets foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and schooling species that will mix well with other Africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Difference between male and female unknown.
Additional Comments
Vegetation in their diet is very important to promote proper coloration and growth. African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits.

http://www.genex.com 
Common Name
Salvini Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Cichasoma salvini
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A predator that is very territorial. They mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
Mexico-Guatemala: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood. Live plants do not need to be potted.
Breeding
The anal and dorsal fins on the male end in a point, and the female displays a dark spot on her gill cover. During spawning,500 eggs can be produced, and both parents care for the fry.
Additional Comments
Salvini's are one of the most colorful South American cichlids.

Common Name
Texas Cichlid
Other Common Names
Rio Grande Perch
Scientific Name
Cichlasoma cyanoguttatum
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Bottom
Adult Length
9-12 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, lettuce, zucchini and peas. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A territorial fish that is intolerant of their own kind. Peaceful with other similar sized cichlids, unless they are breeding.
Habitat
Texas: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants are not recommended for decoration, as the cichlids will destroy them.
Breeding
During spawning up to 500 eggs may be produced. Both parents will care for the fry, but if they feel threatened, they will eat their brood.
Additional Comments
Texas Cichlids are very sensitive to poor water quality.

Common Name
Tiger Oscar
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Astronotus ocellatus species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature78 ºF
Swimming Range
Top-Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
10-12 inches
Feeding Habits
Juveniles will eat live earth worms, fish ,crickets, mealworms, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Pellet and tablet dried foods also accepted. Adults prefer live fish, but if raised on other foods, will readily accept these alternatives.
Compatibility
Aggressive fish that should be kept alone or with other large aggressive fish.
Habitat
South America: Sparingly decorated with rocks and driftwood. Decorations will be overturned and moved around by the Adult Oscars.
Breeding
The difference between male and female is unknown. During spawning 1000-2000 eggs can be produced. Oscars are very good parents and will ferociously defend their offspring.
Additional Comments
One of the most popular and recognized Cichlids on the market today.

Common Name
Turquoise Severum
Other Common Names
Banded Cichlid
Scientific Name
Cichasoma severum species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
6-8 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Peaceful with other fish of the same size, but will become very aggressive during spawning. They mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
South America: Sparingly decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants may be used, but they should be hardy and placed in pots.
Breeding
The male has longer fins than the female. During spawning, up to 1000 eggs can be produced, and both parents will care for the brood.
Additional Comments
Severums, with the exception of the gold variety, can change their body color from light gray to dark green, brown or black depending on their mood.

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Noun
1. freshwater fishes of tropical America and Africa and Asia similar to American sunfishes; some are food fishes; many small ones are popular in aquariums
(synonym) cichlid fish
(hypernym) percoid fish, percoid, percoidean
(hyponym) bolti, Tilapia nilotica
(member-holonym) Cichlidae, family Cichlidae

Common Name
Black Convict Cichlid
Other Common Names
Zebra Cichlid
Scientific Name
Cichasoma nigrofasciatum
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine hrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive with their own kind and other species as well, especially during spawning. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
El Salvador-Panama: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants will be eaten by the convicts.
Breeding
The male has longer fins, and the female has orange scales on her sides. Both parents will care for the fry.
Additional Comments
Vegetation in their diet is very important to promote proper colors and growth.

Common Name
Blue Ram
Other Common Names
Butterfly Cichlid
Scientific Name
Apistogramma ramirezi
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Semi-Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and flake foods accepted on occasion.
Compatibility
Peaceful with the same sized fish, but may eat the smaller fish.
Habitat
Columbia-Venezuela: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood.
Breeding
The male has a longer dorsal fin than the female. During spawning 150-200 eggs can be produced.
Additional Comments
They have a short life span which averages 2-3 years. The Ram is sensitive to chemicals in the water, low oxygen levels, nitrites and changes in their environment.

Common Name
Bumble Bee
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Pseudothropheus crabro
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
5-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well in an African Cichlid Community. Synodontis Catfish will make a great addition to the community as bottom feeders.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Densely decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Java Fern and Java Moss are the best live plants for decoration, as they will not be demolished by the cichlids.
Breeding
Males are a dark brown almost black in color, and females are brown and yellow striped.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with fish hobbyists because of their interesting breeding habits and their bright color patterns.

Common Name
Cobalt Zebra
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Pseudothropheus species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
5-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, zucchini and lettuce. Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well in an African Cichlid Community. Synodontis Catfish will make a great addition to the community as bottom feeders.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Densely decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Java Fern and Java Moss are the best live plants for decoration, as they will not be demolished by the cichlids.
Breeding
Males have numerous egg spots on their anal fins.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with fish hobbyists because of their interesting breeding habits and their bright color patterns.

Common Name
Electric Yellow Labidochromis
Other Common Names
Yellow Labidochromis
Scientific Name
Labidochromis caeruleus
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, snails, invertebrates, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, blood worms, brine shrimp, daphnia and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablets foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and schooling species that will mix well with other africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Difference between male and female unknown.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits.

Common Name
Firemouth Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Cichasoma meeki
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
5-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive especially during spawning. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
Guatemala: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Use only hardy live potted plants, as the firemouths may uproot them.
Breeding
The anal and dorsal fins on the male are longer and end in a point. During spawning 100-500 eggs can be produced, and both parents care for the fry.
Additional Comments
They will flair out their gill covers when threatened or defending their fry.

Common Name
Gold Ram
Other Common Names
Butterfly Cichlid
Scientific Name
Apistogramma ramirezi species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Semi-Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and flake foods accepted on occasion.
Compatibility
Peaceful with the same sized fish, but may eat the smaller fish.
Habitat
Columbia-Venezuela: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood.
Breeding
The male has a longer dorsal fin than the female. During spawning 150-200 eggs can be produced.
Additional Comments
They have a short life span which averages 2-3 years. The Ram is sensitive to chemicals in the water, low oxygen levels, nitrites and changes in their environment.

Common Name
Auratus
Other Common Names
Golden Cichlid
Scientific Name
Melanochromis auratus
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3 1/2 - 4 inches
Feeding HabitsFresh spinach, peas, romaine lettuce and zucchini. Live blood worms, fish, brine shrimp, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, daphnia, plankton, beef heart, hi-pro diet, blood worms, glass worms and brine shrimp. Freeze dried and pelleted foods also accepted.
Compatibility
African community only. Will mix well with other Africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Female Auratus display the brighter coloration. Yellow on the lower half of the body with black and white stripes on the upper half. Male coloration, especially during breeding, is almost a reversal of the female's colors. The lower half of the body is black while the top half is yellow and white striped. Auratus are mouthbrooders and readily breed in the aquarium.
Additional Comments
Vegetation is very important in their diet for proper growth and coloration.

Common Name
Haplochromis Electric Blue
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Haplochromis ahli
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, blood worms, brine shrimp, daphnia and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablets foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful species that is territorial during spawning. Place in an African community only. Will mix well with other africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
The males are a brilliant blue and the females are brown or silver in color.
Additional Comments
The males can stay in their breeding color all year. African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits.

Common Name
Haplochromis Polystigma
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Haplochromis polystigma
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
8-9 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A territorial predator that will mix well with other similar sized africans, but aggressive with other fish. Synodontis Catfish are great for bottom feeder.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Moderately decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Live plants are should be in pots.
Breeding
The male has a blue face and a yellow and brown color pattern on his body, while the female has a tan and brown color pattern. They are mouthbrooders that can produce up to 20 eggs during spawning.
Additional Comments
The Polystigma is often confused with the Venustas, but they each have a distinct color pattern on their bodies.

Haplochromis Red Empress
Pseudothropheus Species
Other Common Names
Scientific Name
Pseudothropheus species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
6-8 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, daphnia, plankton, blood worms, beef heart, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well with other Africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Mouthbrooders: Males are primarily blue with red coloration and females are brown or silver in color.
Additional Comments
Vegetation is very important in their diet to promote proper growth and coloration. African Cichlids are very popular with hobbyists due to their brilliant colors and breeding habits.

Common Name
Haplochromis Venustus
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Haplochromis venustus
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
10 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach. peas. lettuce and zucchini. Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
An aggressive territorial species that is very intolerant of their own kind. Mixes well with other similar sized africans, but aggressive with other fish. Synodontis Catfish are great for bottom feeder.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Moderately decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Live plants are should be in pots.
Breeding
The males have a bright blue head and face with a yellow and brown coloration to their body pattern. The female has a tan and brown body coloration. They are mouthbrooders that can produce up to 120 eggs during spawning.
Additional Comments
Vegetation is extremely important in the diet of this species, without it they will lack body colors, become deformed and die a premature death. Often confused with the Polystigma, but each has their own distinct body pattern.

Common Name
Jack Dempsey Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Cichasoma octofasciatum
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
7-8 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive with their own kind and other species as well, especially during spawning. They will stake out territories in the aquarium. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
Guatemala: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants will be eaten by the dempseys.
Breeding
The anal and dorsal fin of the male is longer. During spawning 500-800 eggs can be produced, and both parents will care for the fry.
Additional Comments
Average life span is 8-10 years.

Common Name
Jewel Cichlid
Other Common Names
Jewel Fish
Scientific Name
Hemichromis bimaculatus
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive and territorial especially during spawning. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
Africa: Densely decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Use only hardy live potted plants, as the jewels may uproot them.
Breeding
The male has larger jewel spots on his gill plates. During spawning 200-500 eggs can be produced, and both the parents take care of the brood.
Additional Comments
Very aggressive cichlid. By keeping the aquarium densely decorated, it will help cut down on the aggression towards other fish in the aquarium.

Common Name
Johanni
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Melanochromis johannii
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Top-Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-4 1/2 inches
Feeding Habits
Live blood worms, fish, brine shrimp, insects, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, vegetable diet, hi-pro diet, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and beef heart. Freeze dried foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A territorial species that is intolerant of their own kind. Will mix well with other africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
The male has a black body with blue stripes while the female is a yellow-orange color. They are mouthbrooders that can produce 30-40 eggs during spawning.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits. The males are often confused with the Electric Blue Johanni, but the blue stripes are more brilliant on the Electric Blue Johanni.

Common Name
Kenyi
Other Common Names
None
Scientific Name
Pseudothropheus lombardoi
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-5 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, zucchini and lettuce. Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, mealworms, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen beef heart, hi-pro, daphnia, glass worms, blood worms, plankton, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well in an African Cichlid Community. Synodontis Catfish will make a great addition to the community as bottom feeders.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Densely decorate with rocks, clay pots and driftwood. Java Fern and Java Moss are the best live plants for decoration, as they will not be demolished by the cichlids.
Breeding
Males are yellow in color and the females are blue.
Additional Comments
African Cichlids are very popular with fish hobbyists because of their interesting breeding habits and their bright color patterns.

Common Name
Kribensis
Other Common Names
Purple Cichlid, Dwarf Rainbow Cichlid
Scientific Name
Pelvicachromis pulcher
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Semi-Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Bottom
Adult Length
3-4 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen daphnia, plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and territorial, may be aggressive during spawning.
Habitat
Africa: Densely decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood.
Breeding
The male has pointed anal and dorsal fins. Female has deeper purple color on her body. During spawning 200-300 eggs can be produced, and both the parents take care of the brood.
Additional Comments
Live plants are usually not disturbed even though the fish likes to burrow. They are very sensitive to poor water conditions.

Common Name
Labeotropheus Fuelleborni
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Labeotropheus fuelleborni
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78º
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
6 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, lettuce and zucchini. Live fish, blood worms, brine shrimp, glass worms, tubifex worms, crickets and mealworms. Frozen blood worms, beef heart, plankton, hi-pro diet, vegetable diet, glass worms and brine shrimp. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A very territorial and aggressive species. Provide lots of territories for the cichlids. Synodontis Catfish make a great addition as a bottom feeder.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
The males have the egg spots on their anal fin. They are mouthbrooders.
Additional Comments
There are several color morphs available for this species. Vegetation is very important in their diet for proper growth and coloration.

Common Name
Managuense
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Cichlasoma managuense
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Bottom
Adult Length
9-11 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
An aggressive and territorial species that is intolerant of their own kind and will eat any smaller fish.
Habitat
Nicaragua-Costa Rica: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants are not recommended in the aquarium with these fish.
Breeding
The male's dorsal and anal fin are pointed. The female will care for the brood. During spawning up to 5000 yellowish colored eggs can be produced.
Additional Comments
This fish is highly respected in its native lands as a food fish

Common Name
Pike Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Crenicichla lepidota
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range

Top-Middle
Adult Length
12 inches
Feeding Habits
Juveniles prefer live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried foods also accepted. Adults will usually only eat live fish.
Compatibility
A predator that will eat any fish they can fit into their mouths, but will usually not bother fish too big to consume.
Habitat
South America: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants may be used but should be placed in pots to prevent the cichlids from digging them up.
Breeding
Unknown.
Additional Comments
Adults should be kept alone as they tend to be very territorial as they mature. Illegal in Texas.

Common Name
Pink Convict Cichlid
Other Common Names
Pink Zebra Cichlid
Scientific Name
Cichasoma nigrofasciatum species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-6 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Very aggressive with their own kind and other species as well, especially during spawning. Mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
El Salvador-Panama: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants will be eaten by the convicts.
Breeding
The male has longer fins, and the female has orange scales on her sides. Both parents will care for the fry. Additional Comments
Additional Comments
Vegetation in their diet is very important to promote proper colors and growth.

Common Name
Rainbow Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Herotilapia Multispinosa
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
4-5 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, lettuce, zucchini and peas. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A territorial fish that is usually peaceful with other similar sized cichlids, unless they are breeding.
Habitat
Nicaragua: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood. They will not disturb live plants like some of the cichlids species.
Breeding
The anal and dorsal fins on the male are longer and end in a point. During spawning 700-1000 eggs can be produced, and both parents care for the fry.
Additional Comments
Their body color changes from a light yellow-gold to dark brown-black when threatened, frightened or breeding.

Common Name
Red Devil Cichlid
Other Common Names
Midas Cichlid
Scientific Name
Cichlasoma citrinellum
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
12 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, romaine lettuce and zucchini. Live fish, crustaceans, insects, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Red Devils are aggressive and territorial fish. They may be peaceful with other similar sized cichlids, unless they are breeding.
Habitat
Nicaragua: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants will be destroyed by these cichlids.
Breeding
The male develops a hump (nuchal) on his forehead. During spawning they can produce up to 300 eggs, and both parents will care for the brood.
Additional Comments
Red Devil's have different color patterns ranging from an orange, orange and black blotches and orange and white blotches.

Common Name
Rusty Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Iodotropheus sprengerae
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Top-Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3-4 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, lettuce and zucchini. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, blood worms, brine shrimp, daphnia and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablets foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and schooling species that will mix well with other Africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Difference between male and female unknown.
Additional Comments
Vegetation in their diet is very important to promote proper coloration and growth. African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits.

http://www.genex.com 
Common Name
Salvini Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Cichasoma salvini
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
6 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A predator that is very territorial. They mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
Mexico-Guatemala: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood. Live plants do not need to be potted.
Breeding
The anal and dorsal fins on the male end in a point, and the female displays a dark spot on her gill cover. During spawning,500 eggs can be produced, and both parents care for the fry.
Additional Comments
Salvini's are one of the most colorful South American cichlids.

Common Name
Texas Cichlid
Other Common Names
Rio Grande Perch
Scientific Name
Cichlasoma cyanoguttatum
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Bottom
Adult Length
9-12 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, lettuce, zucchini and peas. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A territorial fish that is intolerant of their own kind. Peaceful with other similar sized cichlids, unless they are breeding.
Habitat
Texas: Moderately decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants are not recommended for decoration, as the cichlids will destroy them.
Breeding
During spawning up to 500 eggs may be produced. Both parents will care for the fry, but if they feel threatened, they will eat their brood.
Additional Comments
Texas Cichlids are very sensitive to poor water quality.

Common Name
Tiger Oscar
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Astronotus ocellatus species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature78 ºF
Swimming Range
Top-Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
10-12 inches
Feeding Habits
Juveniles will eat live earth worms, fish ,crickets, mealworms, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Pellet and tablet dried foods also accepted. Adults prefer live fish, but if raised on other foods, will readily accept these alternatives.
Compatibility
Aggressive fish that should be kept alone or with other large aggressive fish.
Habitat
South America: Sparingly decorated with rocks and driftwood. Decorations will be overturned and moved around by the Adult Oscars.
Breeding
The difference between male and female is unknown. During spawning 1000-2000 eggs can be produced. Oscars are very good parents and will ferociously defend their offspring.
Additional Comments
One of the most popular and recognized Cichlids on the market today.

Common Name
Turquoise Severum
Other Common Names
Banded Cichlid
Scientific Name
Cichasoma severum species
Family
Cichlidae
Community
Aggressive
Class
Cichlids
Temperature
78 ºF
Swimming Range
Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
6-8 inches
Feeding Habits
Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, brine shrimp, glass worms and blood worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.
Compatibility
Peaceful with other fish of the same size, but will become very aggressive during spawning. They mix with other similar sized aggressive cichlids.
Habitat
South America: Sparingly decorated with rocks, plastic plants and driftwood. Live plants may be used, but they should be hardy and placed in pots.
Breeding
The male has longer fins than the female. During spawning, up to 1000 eggs can be produced, and both parents will care for the brood.
Additional Comments
Severums, with the exception of the gold variety, can change their body color from light gray to dark green, brown or black depending on their mood.