These cichlids are maternal mouth brooders. One reason why this species of fish is so widespread is because of their unique breeding process. They will nibble on the plants as they’re hungry, but you can supplement with small feedings or algae wafers daily just in case.Ī mixture of plants will also help keep the tank’s nitrates low and provide ample hiding places. Having a well-planted tank is a must to keeping these fish. Instead, cichlids mostly eat plant matter in their tanks. However, these foods are protein-rich and can lead to obesity in these fish. Several cichlid foods are on the market, some of which claim to improve coloration. These cichlids shouldn’t ideally be fed a processed pellet diet. Over time, the cichlids will stake out an area as their territory, and as long as they don’t feel threatened, they won’t typically harm other fish.Ĭichlids generally do well with more minor, peaceful fish and bottom feeders, like plecos.Īlso read: 8 Best 55 Gallon Fish Tank Filter Reviews Food and Diet Another essential condition is having adequate space for cichlids to hide and play. This will help reduce inter-species aggression and fighting. One necessary condition is that there are more females than males. They can be kept successfully in large community aquariums, but only if certain conditions are met. These fish can be semi-territorial if you’re unfamiliar with the cichlid breed. These parameters are about the same for any tropical fish, so if you have an established tropical community tank, these fish should be compatible. 7.8 to 8.8 is a good standard, as these fish are accustomed to more alkalinity in the water.Īlkalinity can be raised using a commercial additive or baking soda in the water.įinally, water hardness should range from 100 to 200 mg/l, as tropical fish prefer more challenging water. In terms of alkalinity, a slightly higher pH is ideal. Warmer temperatures will cause faster metabolism in fish. The temperature should range from 72-82° Fahrenheit (22-28° Celsius). The red zebra cichlid requires your average tropical water parameters. Some red zebra cichlids can be observed “ decorating” their tanks by moving around rocks and other decor items! Water Requirements This will help reduce aggression, tank anxiety, and boredom. This is also a vital component of satisfying their territorial aggression.Ī plethora of rocks and other structures should be provided to allow these cichlids to hide and declare their territory. Red zebra cichlids, native to African lakes, prefer to hide in rocks and other structures. The tank should be large enough to accommodate a decent amount of aquascaping to provide shelter for the fish. The ideal tank size should be a minimum of 55 gallons. While these cichlids are typically smaller, they still need an expansive tank. Males have 3 or more spots, whereas females have less than 3. Males and females are identical in appearance but can be told apart by their egg spots on the hind fins. However, wide varieties can be found with the zebra stripe banding.

Instead, they are solid in appearance and often come in variations of blue, pink, yellow, and other colors. Many red zebra cichlids lack their distinctive stripes. The most recognizable coloration of the red zebra cichlid is the orange-red one, which can be found in most local fish stores.

This species is also a good jumping-off point for those interested in keeping slightly more advanced fish than the typical tetra or danio. The red zebra cichlid is a smaller alternative to those interested in keeping the vivid, entertaining species. For context, African cichlids can reach up to 12 feet. Red zebra cichlids live, on average, anywhere from 5 to 10 years in captivity.ĭuring this time, they can extend up to 5 inches in length, which is slightly smaller than most cichlids.

Adding Red Zebra Cichlids to Your Tank Lifespan and Care.

Fire red zebra cichlid