By having a fish tank in your home or office, you can really liven up the place with a bounty of colors and exotic beauty. There are generally two options in either fresh water or salt water aquariums. The fresh water option is much easier to maintain however, the selection of fish and coral is much more limited in comparison to the salt water option. However, if you plan to populate your aquarium with Cichlids then, you will have a greater selection than any other fresh water fish.

The South American Cichlids make up about 400 to 600 known species with 311 of them being scientifically described. These Cichlids are a very adaptable species allowing them to exist in a wide array of environments and ecologies. Most of the South American Cichlids are known to be carnivores but, some of them feed on planktons, mollusks and other plant materials. You can find Cichlids from 2.5 centimeters to the larger ones that can become as large as 65 centimeters.

It's the general consensus that Cichlids are difficult to handle however, this is far from the truth if you simply know what you're doing. Cichlids are generally very sensitive and improper PH levels along with feeding them the wrong foods can make them overly aggressive towards their fellow fish mates. Once you've learned what to feed your Cichlids and how often, you will have stress free Cichlids without any effort.

If your into breeding them, you need to find the right resource to make sure you do it right. You will also need to become knowledgeable in how to diagnose, treat and cure the most dangerous fish diseases. These suggestions are just some of the few ideas that you need to consider when starting a Cichlids fish aquarium.

In reference to the South American species, they make up between 250 to 450 known Cichlids and 310 of them are scientifically described. Opposed to the other species, the South American Cichlids can be very adaptable allowing them to exist in a wide array of environments and ecologies. You will find that a great number of them are known to be carnivores. But, there are plenty to choose from who feed primarily plant materials. You can find Cichlids ranging from 2.1 centimeters to the larger ones that can become as large as 58 centimeters.

In reference to the African species, they are known for having even beautiful patterns and array of colors that are not outside of other freshwater fish. They are quite fascinating to observe and exhibit very friendly social behavior with a high degree of intelligence.

In reference to the Jack Dempsey species, it's very interesting in how they choose their mates based on a process of chasing one another around the tank and lip locking. This is primarily a test they perform to determine strength and durability in selecting their potential mate. In your tank, it's a good idea to have pairs of equal size because the males tend to be larger and more aggressive and can therefore do some serious damage to a female that is much smaller.

In summary, if you have chosen to go for the fresh water fish tank then, going with Cichlids fish is your optimum choice. They offer the greater variety of color, shapes and sizes and you will be quick to show them off. So, unleash your creativity and let your fish tank provide years of enjoyment for your home or office.

Whether you're a long time Cichlid's enthusiasts or just beginning your beginning fish find out, you will find out great deal from a zealous authority in maintaining and breeding cichlids fish that you will be proud to show off.