Cichlazomas: Care and Maintenance

The group of cichlazomas is rather heterogeneous. Here you can find both real giants and medium-sized fish. The aquarium for them must be selected based on the maximum size of adults. Therefore, the recommended volume will vary from 60 to 450 liters.

Aquarium for cichlids

They contain cyclases, usually in pairs, sometimes in harems from a male and several females. The settlement of several males together is possible only in large containers with the obligatory delimitation of the territory, which the fish actively protect.

It is best to divide the space with the help of natural decorations – stones and driftwood.

As with any large fish, powerful filtration and aeration will be required. Installation of an efficient external filter and compressor, designed for the corresponding volume of the aquarium, will help here.

Regular maintenance of the aquarium includes a water change, cleaning the soil and glass, and cleaning the filter sponges as needed.

Water parameters

Cichlazomas are hardy fish. They adapt well to life in various conditions. They are best kept at temperatures between 22 and 28 ° C. Water can be from soft to medium hardness and acidity 6-8 units.

In aquariums with cichlazomas, which are predators, metabolic products quickly accumulate, the high concentration of which reduces the resistance of the fish to diseases. To prevent this from happening, it is necessary to change 20% of the volume of the aquarium once a week. It is important to note that when using water from the central water supply for changing water, it must be prepared in advance because it can carry such compounds dangerous for aquatic organisms as chlorine derivatives and heavy metals. You cannot get rid of these components by the usual settling of water, and the prospect of keeping huge containers for changing the water at home is a little scary.

Use Tetra AquaSafe Conditioner to keep the water out of the water and quickly make it suitable for fish. It instantly neutralizes chlorine and binds heavy metals, making water safe. B vitamins and plant colloids reduce stress and protect the mucous membranes of fish.

Shine

Cichlase is kept in sufficiently bright light, which allows you to fully enjoy the beauty of these graceful fish. Since live plants are practically not used in aquariums with cichlazomas, daylight hours are best limited to 4-6 hours so as not to stimulate the development of algae.

Priming

In aquariums, sand, or large rounded pebbles are used for keeping cichlases. It is important to remember that these species are lovers of stirring up the ground, any decorations should be firmly fixed.

Plants

Cichlazomas are practically incompatible with living plants. These large predatory fish will mercilessly tear up or dig up almost any plant species. Only the Anubias, which are firmly fixed on decorations or in pots, and are also lined with large stones, manage to withstand their onslaught.

Feeding cichlaz

Specific features of cichlase feeding are the large size of adults in many species, the need for high protein content, and plant feeding.

Fish easily eat any type of food: dry, live, and frozen. But the latter two cannot be recommended as the main food due to the imbalance and danger of contamination of the aquarium. Therefore, when keeping cichlases at home, it is better to opt for complete dry food for cichlids.

1. For medium-sized cichlases, Tetra Cichlid Granules are perfect. It fully satisfies the nutritional needs of cichlids, contains a complex of vitamins for good health and longevity.
2. Tetra Cichlid Sticks are intended for large cichlids that float to the surface and appear as the natural food for large fish. A good combination of animal and plant ingredients makes the food nutritious and easy to digest, which helps to reduce contamination of the aquarium.
3. Tetra Cichlid Algae Mini contains Spirulina Algae Concentrate to provide cichlase with an additional source of fiber. Contains natural carotenoids to enhance the color of fish.
   Cichlaz should be fed at least 2 times a day while avoiding overeating.

Compatibility

Cichlazomas are fish with pronounced territoriality. If a couple occupies an area of ​​the aquarium, they will aggressively stop any intrusion from outside. This is especially pronounced during the spawning period. A species aquarium will be an ideal choice for keeping cyclases.

If nevertheless, there is a desire to combine cichlaz with other types of fish, then it is necessary to dwell on commensurate cichlids, similar in temperament. Other cichlazomas, some African cichlids, large catfish (pterygoplicht, clarius, etc.)

It is best to keep the fish together from an early age, then the aggression will be the least pronounced. Be sure to provide enough cover to keep the fish clear.