The malawi cichlids are among the most sought after aquarium fish by hobbyists. Malawi cichlids are so named because they come from the Malawi section of the African Great Lakes. Hobbyists are huge fans of the malawi cichlids’ vivid coloration, huge variety and interesting behavior. They are also well-regarded for being relatively easy to take care of.

For a beginner, taking care of malawi cichlids can be source of endless fascination and learning. Here are a few tips on how to take care of them.

Malawi cichlids live in the waters of Lake Malawi, where the freshwater stay in pH levels of 7.5 to 8.4 approximately. To replicate these conditions in an aquarium, it is advisable to use sand, gravel, corals and rocks like limestone to increase pH levels of the water. Alternatively, there are commercial pH buffers that are sold on aquarium supply stores.

Different species of cichlids have different dietary needs, so it is very important to identify the exact breed of the fish before purchasing feeds. As a general rule, feeds with high concentration of vegetables and spirulina provide good and safe nourishment for the fish.

African cichlids are known to be quite aggressive. It is not advisable to maintain two males within a regular-sized aquarium or smaller than a 55 gallon aquarium, as they will both assert their territory and fight. The same tip goes for keeping similar-sized malawi cichlids, since one of the ways cichlids assert their dominance is by showing off their size; if not one fish is clearly bigger, the similar-sized cichlids will end up fighting for dominance. For larger aquariums such as all glass aquarium with more than one male cichlid, it is important to decorate them with natural borders so the fish can mark their own territories and keep each other out of sight. Experts also suggest trying to slightly lower the aquarium’s temperature when the aggression gets out of hand.

When looking for a tank to house the fish, consider as well the malawi cichlids’ full-grown size and whether they can have enough room to grow. Some fully-grown species of cichlids (e.g. tanganyika cichlids but not the jewel cichlid) can grow up to nine inches long, so the fish tank should allow for ample space for movement. Proper filtration is also key, and in some cases over-filtration is also required since cichlids can be quite messy. Make sure that there is enough surface agitation to facilitate a healthy exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide.

The malawi cichlids will definitely appreciate an aquarium that is close to their natural habitat. So make sure to decorate the tank with rockwork if the species are mbuna, or rock dwellers. This type of cichlid also uses rocks as breeding grounds and territorial markers, so it is ideal to arrange the rocks to form caves and passageways. On the other hand, species such as Haps and Peacocks require more open space to swim and are used to sandy floors with little rocks. Aquarium bricks, wood and painted piping can also add to the beauty of the tank while providing interesting passageways and shelter for the fish.

These tips are just about what anyone needs to properly start caring for malawi cichlids. These lovely malawi cichlids will sure bring some vivid color and life to any aquarist’s home.