Group care guide
Cichlids
- Rift-lake cichlids (Malawi and Tanganyika) need hard, alkaline water and rockwork; many South American cichlids prefer softer, slightly acidic water. Check this species' numbers above.
- Plan space for territorial behavior, especially when breeding.
- Choose food by species: Labidochromis caeruleus consumes animal prey as well as accepting prepared foods, while Tropheus moorii needs a vegetable-based staple. Avoid a universal low-protein rule for mbuna.
