Central American cichlids

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Breeds: Popular South and Central American cichlids include Oscar, Firemouth, Jack Dempsey, Blue Ram, Convict, Blood Parrot, Midas, Angelfish and Texas cichlidsSize: They grow up to 3-10 inches (7-25 cm) long
• Lifespan: South and Central American cichlids live for 10-20 years depending on the species
• Habitat: They are best housed in a cichlid-only aquarium as they may eat fish small enough to fit into their mouths
• Behaviour: They are often territorial and may become aggressive when trying to breed

Filtration

• An aquarium filter should be able to process all of the water in the tank 3 to 5 times an hour. For example, the filter in a 20-gallon tank would need to push through at least 60 gallons of water each hour. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for choosing and setting up the filter.

Heat and light

• Check the temperature your South and Central American Cichlids will need before you bring them home. Tropical fish need warm water that’s between 74 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Choose an aquarium heater with 5 watts of power for each gallon of water in the aquarium. A large aquarium may need a heater at each end.
• Wait 15 minutes after filling the tank before turning on the heater.
• Place the heater close enough to the filter to distribute the warmed water.
• Run the tank’s filter and the tank’s hood light for 24 hours, then check the water temperature and adjust the heater if necessary.

Prepare to have American Cichlid :

• If you will be using an under-gravel filter, add it first.
• Layer about 2 to 3 inches (5-8 cm) of gravel on the bottom of the tank (that works out to 1 pounds of gravel per gallon of water). Rinse the gravel before putting it in the aquarium.
• Fill the tank about halfway up with dechlorinated water.
• Add the thermometer and other necessary equipment.
• Time to decorate! Add plants, rocks and fish dcor. Because cichlids are territorial, provide enough furniture that each fish can establish its own turf. Cichlids also like to hide, so put several cave structures in the tank. Rinse all dcor before adding it to the tank.
• Finish by filling the tank the rest of the way with water and cover with an illuminated hood.

• The minimum size of your aquarium depends on how many cichlids you have and how big they will be as adults. Cichlids of 6 inches (15 cm) or less need at least a 20-gallon tank. Cichlids up to 8 inches (20 cm) long need at least a 29-gallon tank.
• If you plan to have multiple cichlids, follow this formula to determine whether the tank should be even larger. The aquarium should have two gallons of water for every inch of fully-grown fish.
• Place the tank near a power source in a low-traffic area, away from direct sunlight and drafts.
• Water weighs 8 pounds per gallon. Pick a very sturdy, stable base for your aquarium, then fill the tank with water.
• Set up the aquarium at least one day before you add any fish.

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