Buying Cichlids

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you are buying cichlids:

Do your research. Before buying cichlids, read up on them. Do they have special needs? Will you be able to meet the requirements of raising them? Many times people take in pets with very little knowledge about caring for them that these animals end up ill or, worse, dead.

Buy only from a trusted source. Here is where your network of friends and acquaintances come in handy. Seek out experienced cichlids owners from among your network and ask for advice on where to find a trustworthy shop that sells cichlids. You can buy cichlids online, from a local pet shop, or from an experienced cichlid breeder. What is important is the seller can be trusted enough to sell you healthy cichlids and will be happy to replace them if something goes wrong.

For further information on buying cichlids visit http://www.keepingcichlids.com/

African Cichlids

African cichlids are a breed of cichlids found in the three lakes of Africa: Lake Malawi, Lake Tanginika and Lake Victoria.  There are at least a thousand different species of cichlids in Lake Malawi, which is Africa’s third biggest and second deepest lake. 

African cichlids have beautiful and colourful patterns not usually found in freshwater fish.  They are more colourful than any other group of freshwater fish. Their vibrant colors are admired and hailed by fish enthusiasts.

African female cichlids carry eggs and young in their mouths.  This is called mouth brooding.  The male fertilizes the eggs then the female picks them up and nurtures the eggs in her mouth for 3 weeks to 31 days, depending on the type of species.  During this time the mother does not eat anything.  The mother shows such motherly devotion for even after the fish have been released, the mother would usually take them back into her mouth when they are in danger. African cichlids are protective parents. They are known to raise their young even in crowded fish communities. 

For more information about African cichlids visit http://www.keepingcichlids.com/