{"title":"Cichlid","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"flagtail","title":"Flagtail - Flagtail Prochilodus","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Flagtail Prochilodus has a wide distribution throughout the central and western portions of the Amazon river and its tributaries. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTank Mates:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis striking characin grows to an impressive size and will require a spacious aquarium from the outset. Although it can be safely housed alongside other medium-sized fish species (e.g. other characins of similar size, knifefish, L-number plecos, peaceful cichlids etc).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehavioural Traits: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Flagtail can be rather antagonistic towards its own kind, so is best kept singly or in a group of 6 or more so that any aggression is spread throughout the shoal. The Flagtail Prochilodus can be a little sensitive, so it is vital that the aquarium is biologically mature and small partial water changes are carried out on a regular basis. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTank Setup:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProvide them with a sandy substrate, river rocks, and tangles of driftwood to hide amongst. Unfortunately, most plants will be eaten, as anything green and leafy tends to be regarded as food. However, some aquarists have reasonable success keeping them alongside Java fern (which tends to taste bitter) or tough-leaved plants such as some of the larger \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eAnubias\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e species. Another option is aquascaping with plastic or silk plants. Bright lighting is not usually a problem as these fish will happily browse on most types of algae. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOmnivorous, but a large proportion of the diet should consist of vegetable matter. Offer flake, green flake, slow-sinking pellets, algae wafers, cucumber, spinach, lettuce, watercress, soft- or fine-leaved aquatic plants (e.g. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eCabomba caroliniana\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e), and frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp etc. Larger specimens will eat krill, chopped prawns etc.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Fishcave Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57089976828229,"sku":null,"price":32.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1033\/0977\/1077\/files\/40704187581_f6d8cc957c_o.jpg?v=1770590680"},{"product_id":"lionhead-white-blood-parrot-cichlid","title":"Lionhead White Blood Parrot Cichlid - Amphilophus Citrinellus X Vieja Melanura","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe captivating Parrot Fish Hybrid, a stunning amalgamation of Amphilophus Citrinellus and Vieja melanurus, boasting a unique blend of colors and distinctive traits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHailing from Central America, this hybrid inherits characteristics from both its parent species, showcasing a blend of brilliant colours and fascinating features that captivate any observer. With proper care, these hybrids flourish in spacious tanks with ample hiding spots and a diverse aquatic environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginating from the cichlid family, this hybrid embodies vibrant hues and engaging behavior, making it a standout choice for freshwater enthusiasts seeking a visually striking addition to their tanks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeeding the Parrot Fish Hybrid is a delight, as they readily accept a varied diet comprising high-quality pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp. Their omnivorous nature ensures a versatile and enjoyable feeding routine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTank Mates:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen considering tank mates, opt for species of similar size and temperament to ensure a harmonious environment. Peaceful cichlids or larger, non-aggressive tank mates can coexist comfortably with these hybrids, provided there’s enough space and hiding spots to reduce potential conflicts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehavioural Traits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnown for their moderate temperament, the Parrot Fish Hybrid typically exhibits minimal aggression, especially in well-structured tanks with ample territories. However, monitoring their behavior during breeding periods or territorial disputes is advisable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Parameters: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor aquarists, a moderate level of experience is recommended to care for these hybrids. Maintaining stable water parameters is essential: aim for temperatures around 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C), pH levels ranging from 7.0 to 8.0, and moderately hard water with GH between 10 to 20 dGH.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Fishcave Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57089977483589,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1033\/0977\/1077\/files\/White-Parrot-Fish-5_11535263.jpg?v=1770590692"},{"product_id":"bolivian-ram-cichlid","title":"Bolivian Ram Cichlid - Mikrogeophagus Altispinosus","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Bolivian Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus) is a New World Cichlid that is popular in the aquarium trade due to its vibrant colours and relatively docile nature. They are often sold as community tank fishes but they need certain specific conditions to thrive. They can also be slightly aggressive though not as aggressive as some African Cichlids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is endemic or found exclusively in the upper Rio Madeira basin in Bolivia and Brazil. Not much is known about the exact habitat of the Bolivian Ram but it is thought that they inhabit shallow waters with areas of dense vegetation and open spaces of gentle flowing water. They also like areas with flat rocks and natural caves during the breeding season. Their natural habitat consists of mostly sandy bottoms with a scattering of clean flat rocks. Almost 400 different fish species occupy these same habitats and the Bolivian Ram is used to being around other fish provided there is enough space to hide and swim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSize \u0026amp; Appearance: \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis isn’t a particularly large fish with adult males reaching a maximum length of 8 cm or 3.1 inches. It resembles other American Cichlids in body shape. It is quite the colourful cichlid with the front half a brilliant hue of yellow that fades to an olive green shade towards the rear. It has multiple vertical striations on its body with a thick band running from the top of its eyes to the bottom of its face being the prominent one. The third stripe is short and thick and almost appears like a spot. There are four other stripes that are often very faint. The fins are equally colourful with the dorsal and caudal fin ending in bright shades of red. The anal and pelvic fins also have similar edges while also having iridescent blue spots that give this fish a striking appearance especially under subdued lighting. The males are slightly larger and more colourful than the females.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBehavioural Traits:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bolivian Ram is a rather docile species by cichlid standards. It is not however recommended for all types of community aquariums. This is not due to its aggression. It will occasionally charge at other fish but will rarely bite or attack. It is more of a scare tactic. The reason it doesn’t do well in most community aquariums is because it is a poor competitor when feeding. So, when housed with more active fish, it will get outcompeted and can starve as a result. Fishes similar to it that don’t go after food aggressively are well suited to community life with the Bolivian Ram. It is a social cichlid and does well in groups of about 6-8 of its own kind. The group must have a mixture of males and females. They generally form breeding pairs and stay faithful to their partners.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTank Setup:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven though this fish stays small and individuals can be housed in tanks as small as 10 gallons, we recommend housing at least 6 of them together. Such a group would need at least an aquarium that is upwards of 30 gallons. If you intend to add other fish then this size goes up. Anything below 30 gallons will tend to stress the fish out. It also prefers a sandy and soft substrate as we will find out in the feeding section. Coarse gravel should be avoided at all costs as they can harm the Bolivian Ram. Larger rocks and stones can be used as decoration though.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater Parameters:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is one parameter because of which Bolivian Rams should not be mixed with old-world cichlids. Bolivian Rams prefer cooler water in the 20 °C to 28 °C range. They prefer slightly acidic water and while they can tolerate pH levels between 6.0 and 7.5, they do well when the pH is around 6.5. It also prefers water that soft to moderately hard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTank Mates:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEverything from Corydoras to peaceful tetras are perfect tankmates for the Bolivian Ram. Schooling fishes especially make them feel at home. This is because the Bolivian Ram will instinctively know that the presence of schooling fish means that there are no predators nearby. They come out and are generally more relaxed and comfortable. They should not be housed with territorial fishes or aggressive feeders. Fin-nippers should also be avoided as the long flowing fins of the Bolivian Ram can be seen as a tasty treat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDiet: \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bolivian Ram has a rather unique way of feeding. In its natural habitat, it sifts through the substrate and filters it out through its gills to get its food. While captive bred Bolivian Rams will readily accept most food, they do best when fed live food. If pellets are used then they should be of the sinking type as the Bolivian Ram does not like coming to the surface for its food. Wild caught Bolivian Rams will initially refuse pellets and flakes but with time even they will start accepting these types of food. This sifting-through-the-substrate behaviour is what necessitates a soft substrate at the fish can choke on small pieces of gravel.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Fishcave Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57089978335557,"sku":null,"price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1033\/0977\/1077\/files\/Bolivian-Ram-4_09432498.jpg?v=1770590705"},{"product_id":"fairy-cichlid","title":"Fairy Cichlid - Neolamprologus Brichardi","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Fairy Cichlid is widely distributed throughout the northern half of Lake Tanganyika, where it favours shallow, sediment-rich rocky habitats. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTank Setup:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe best choice of substrate would be sand and the watermust be hard and alkaline. Rocks should be used to create small outcrops, ensuring that there are ample visual barriers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehavioural Traits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFairy Cichlids can be aggressive towards one another in the confines of the home aquarium, so broken lines of sight amongst the decor will help. These cichlids can be maintained in a species-only aquarium or as part of a Tanganyikan community with fish of similar temperament. Combining Fairy Cichlids with other species does not always work in the long run, as their breeding strategy of producing large numbers with generations of juveniles defending their burgeoning family and ever-growing home territory, will eventually leave no room for outsiders unless the aquarium is thoughtfully planned. This fish gives its name to the '\u003cem\u003ebrichardi complex\u003c\/em\u003e' of similar species such as \u003cem\u003egracilis, pulcher \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e olivaceous\u003c\/em\u003e which share behavioural traits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFlake, green flake, slow-sinking pellets\/granules, frozen foods such as vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp, chopped krill, mosquito larvae etc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"data-view__table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSynonyms\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"italic-style\"\u003eLamprologus brichardi\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDistribution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLake Tanganyika, Africa.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaximum Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9cm (3.5\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e24-26°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWater Parameters\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHard, alkaline conditions essential. pH: 8.0-9.0, dH: 15-25 degrees.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTanganyikan cichlid community\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLighting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNo special requirements\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSexual Dimorphism\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIn mature fish, the males are usually larger and develop longer anal and dorsal fins.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFeeding\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFlake, granules and frozen foods\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Fishcave Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57089978696005,"sku":null,"price":8.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1033\/0977\/1077\/files\/Neolamprologus-brichardi__43976.jpg?v=1770590714"},{"product_id":"black-belt-cichlid","title":"Black Belt Cichlid - Vieja Maculicauda","description":"\u003cp\u003eBlack Belt Cichlid also known as the \u003cspan\u003eTheraps Maculicauda and Cichlasoma Maculicauda. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eThe beautiful Black Belt Cichlid is a hardy, but aggressive species. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn the wild this species has a wide distribution area, and so geographical colour variations do occur. Although a river dwelling species, the Black Belt Cichlid tends to move into the lower river valleys where the current is more sluggish. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeeding these remarkable cichlids is a delight, as they eagerly indulge in a diverse diet that includes high-quality pellets, flakes, and live or frozen treats like brine shrimp and bloodworms. Ensure their nutrition is well-rounded to enhance their vibrant colors and overall health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTank Mates:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the community tank, the Black Belt Cichlid showcases its social nature. However, when selecting tank mates, exercise caution, opting for species of similar size and temperament to avoid conflicts. These cichlids are known for their assertiveness, especially during breeding periods, so providing ample hiding spots is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Parameters:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the water parameters within the range of 72-82°F (22-28°C), with a pH of 6.5-8.0.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"data-view__table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDistribution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCentral America: Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua \u0026amp; Panama.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaximum Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30cm+ (11.8\"+)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e24-28°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWater Parameters\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWill acclimatise to a wide range of conditions. pH: 6.5-7.5, dH: up to 18 degrees.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNon-community\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLighting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNo special requirements\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSexual Dimorphism\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMales grow larger and mature male specimens will show brighter colours \u0026amp; develop a nuchal hump.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFeeding\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFlake, granules, cichlid pellets and frozen foods\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Fishcave Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57089980105029,"sku":null,"price":8.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1033\/0977\/1077\/files\/1_57e109fa-5c53-4ace-8cdb-4ebfb1c1c947.png?v=1770590748"},{"product_id":"pantano-cichlid","title":"Pantano Cichlid - Herichthys Pearsei","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Pantano Cichlid also known as Herichthys Pearsei is a vibrant fish which is perfect for any aquarium set up. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginating from the freshwater habitats of Central America, specifically the Pantanos de Central region in Mexico, this cichlid species is celebrated for its stunning colours and engaging behaviours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeeding these remarkable cichlids is a joy, as they readily accept a diverse diet. A combination of high-quality pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms will keep them in peak condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTank Mates:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the realm of tank companionship, the Cichlasoma Pearsi Pantano Cichlid prefers the company of other medium to large-sized cichlids with similar temperaments. Careful consideration should be given to tank mates to avoid conflicts, as these cichlids can exhibit territorial behaviour, especially during breeding periods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehavioural Traits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnown for their moderate aggression levels, these cichlids require an experienced aquarist who can navigate their social dynamics. Providing adequate hiding spaces and a well-structured tank layout will help mitigate territorial disputes and ensure a harmonious environment. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExperience Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAquarists with intermediate to advanced experience levels will find great satisfaction in caring for the Cichlasoma Pearsi Pantano Cichlid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Parameters:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters is crucial for their well-being. Aim for a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5, water hardness between 8 to 12 dKH, and a tropical temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Fishcave Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57089980498245,"sku":null,"price":14.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1033\/0977\/1077\/files\/11-1.jpg?v=1770590757"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.fishcaveaquatics.co.uk\/collections\/cichlid.oembed","provider":"Fish Cave Aquatics Ltd","version":"1.0","type":"link"}