There are over 1,650 identified species of cichlids, and not a single one prefers cooler water. So, providing a well-oxygenated and clean tank is the first step towards the longevity of your cichlids.Ĭichlids despise cold water. This master kit can test 5 different water parameters on the go. For that, I recommend getting the API Freshwater Master Kit since I’ve found them to be more convenient, economical, and accurate than strips. Thus, it’s pretty critical to test the water parameters on time. But, unfortunately, a tank that looks perfectly healthy and clean to our naked eyes could be brewing dangerous levels of toxic chemicals.įor a freshwater aquarium, you should aim to keep the ammonia and nitrite levels at 0 and nitrate levels below 20 ppm. With cichlid aquariums, there’s more than what meets the eye. And that, in turn, spikes the harmful ammonia and nitrite level. So, waste builds up quite quickly in a cichlid aquarium. They’re also known to produce a good amount of bioload. Filters are pivotal in maintaining the correct water parameters, but you cannot wholly lean on them.Ĭichlids are avaricious eaters – thus, they can make the water quite dirty while feeding. The general practice is to remove 20% of the water every week and pour in clean water. It’s the number one reason behind the premature martyrdom of your beloved cichlids. And a dirty tank is undoubtedly the recipe for dead fish. Their homes are nothing short of grandeur.Īs much as we try to mimic the same water conditions in our modest tanks, sometimes, things go haywire. So, it wouldn’t be wrong to say cichlids are used to the freshest, cleanest, and most stable water parameters. And American cichlids are natives of the gushing, cool waters of the Amazon. Let’s go through these conditions one by 1 by 1 to decipher the underlying culprit behind your cichlid’s untimely death.Ĭredits: Andrew Huff (Creative Commons license)Īfrican cichlids come from the sunlit, blue waters of colossal lakes. And some other causes include bullying, overfeeding, overstocking, and diseases. The number one reason behind cichlids dying is wrong water parameters. So, what could be the reason? If you’re wondering, “Why are my cichlids dying?” you’ve come to the right place.Īs hardy as cichlids are, they too have Achilles’ heel. The heartbreak continues when you find a couple of more fish dropping like flies in the days that follow. I don’t think there’s anything more frustrating than waking up one fine day, marveling at your aquarium, and seeing a lifeless fish floating on the surface. Their brilliant colors and sassy personalities give marine fish a run for their money. But, nevertheless, the unexpected death of the fish can leave you feeling emotions you didn’t know you were capable of.ĭid it sound too dramatic? I guess fish parents can relate.Ĭichlids are gems of the freshwater aquarium scene.
Image Credits: Maciej Kowalczuk (Creative Commons license)Īquarium fish aren’t uber expressive as furry pets nor share a very affectionate bond with their owners – well, to be fair, they’re fish.
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