Posts Tagged ‘Fresh Water Fish’
The Interesting Diversity Of The African Cichlid
The African Cichlid (Cichlidae perciformes) is a large diverse group of fish native to African lakes, particularly Lake Malawi, Lake Tanginika and Lake Victoria. This group is considered one of the most specialized and diverse in the world. Species of cichlid (pronounced sik-lid) are found in nearly every area of the world. They are considered the most colorful of all the freshwater fish.
It is generally believe that there are nearly 3000 different species of cichlid, with over 1000 of them living in Lake Tanginika alone. Only 1300 species have been scientifically described. These fish are considered to be very easy to care for when kept in aquariums and they are very popular with aquarium hobbyists. Considered many of the most beautiful fish in the world, it is easy to see why.
Cichlids vary widely in size, shape and coloration. They can range from 1 inch (2.5 cm) to over 3 feet (1 meter) in length. The body shape can be anywhere from disc shaped and compressed to long and triangular. The majority are medium in size and oval shaped. One characteristic that they all share is the fusion of the lower pharyngeal bones into one tooth-bearing formation.
Cichlids vary in the kind of food they eat as well. They are carnivorous, omnivorous, and herbivorous eating only algae, other fish, snails or vegetation. A majority of this species is territorial and they defend their territory ferociously. Along with carnivorous cichlids, the territoriality has caused trouble for many an unsuspecting new aquarium owner.
In contrast to the wide variation in size, shape, colorization and eating habits, these fish are all good parents. Many are mouth-brooders and once the eggs are fertilized by the male, the female will scoop up the eggs and keep them in her mouth for safekeeping until they have hatched. It has been observed that the parents will continue to protect the young after hatching. Not all cichlid species exhibit this mouth-brooding behavior, but all show parental care and guarding behavior. It has also been observed that communal care of eggs and young occurs in schools of fish with multiple monogamous breeding pairs.
The diversity of shape and coloring is what has made them probably the most popular fish on the planet. They are not only highly prized as aquarium fish, but also as game and eating fish. The popular Talapia has been a food fish for thousands of years, as well as several others of this species. The peacock bass is known as a sport-fishing favorite.
Nearly everyone who has seen a large aquarium has probably seen a cichlid of one type or another. The much-loved angelfish is a cichlid, as is the oscar and parrotfish. They are easy to keep in an aquarium and breed well in captivity. An African Cichlid is also said to be intelligent and affectionate. The wide choice of colors and shapes puts them high on the list of any aquarium hobbyist.
Discover what different Cichlid types are available to you. Also learn how to go about keeping Cichlids so they stay healthy and great looking. Check out my site to learn more.