In fact, they are on the more peaceful side when it comes to other Cichlids. Red Zebra Cichlids are not so much aggressive as they are territorial. How Aggressive Are Red Zebra Cichlids Compared to Other Cichlids? If there is enough space in your aquarium, they will spread out and claim territories. It is for this reason that you will want to provide them with adequate decor in the form of cave structures so that they can pick a territory and claim it. It is also advised that you have more females than males in your tank to help with aggression. You will want to make sure that the aquarium you have is big enough to house more than just the Red Zebra Cichlid, or you will have problems with territorial aggression. It will be important for your fish that you are planning on housing with your Red Zebra Cichlid that they have plenty of places to hide. They are able to be housed fine with some plecos, and some species of catfish. The best tank mates for the Red Zebra Cichlid are fish that do not cross its territory. They can live anywhere from 5 to 10 years if cared for properly. The Red Zebra Cichlid can grow up to 5 inches in length. This cuts down on waste in your aquarium. When feeding, only give them an amount that they can completely consume in a few minutes. It is best to feed them small amounts several times a day than it is to feed them a large amount once per day. Red Zebra Cichlids, like all Cichlids, will become overweight if fed too much or too often.
Even though in the wild they do enjoy some proteins, they will eat mostly plant matter. In captivity, they will eat a mostly herbivorous diet. They are best described as an opportunistic feeder in the wild as they will eat what they can get. In the wild, Red Zebra Cichlids are omnivorous, they survive off of tiny invertebrates and zooplankton.
Keep in mind that when the males are trying to define their territory, they may try to move the hardscape around. As for the substrate, fine gravel or sand can be used. Be sure to create a similar habitat in the aquarium as well. Red Zebra Cichlids are rock dwellers, and they like to hide in rock caves. Regarding the tank setup, plenty of hardscape should be used. The pH level should be within 7.5 to 8.5. The water temperature should be 72-82☏ (22-28☌).
In regards to the water parameters for the Red Zebra Cichlids, there are a few things to consider as well. Therefore, having a tank size of adequate size will help these territorial fish coexist in the same tank. These fish aren’t the most aggressive cichlid species, but they are territorial. However, there are basic requirements that must be met while keeping this fish.įirst, a minimum tank size of 55 gallons is required. Red Zebra Cichlids are hardy fish, that is relatively easy to care for. In contrast, females will have 0-3 egg spots. Once the fish have reached maturity, males will have 4-7 egg spots. There are many blue colored males and orange colored females.Īnother way of distinguishing the difference between a male and female Red Zebra Cichlids is by counting the number of egg spots on their anal fins. As a polymorphic species, this sexual dimorphism is not always observed. In contrast, female Red Zebra Cichlids generally tend to have a stronger blue coloration. In general, male Red Zebra Cichlids tend to have a stronger orange coloration. This is because both males and females can come in a variety of colors. Male or Female Red Zebra Cichlidsĭistinguishing the difference between a male and female Red Zebra Cichlids can be a challenge. Since their name doesn’t always match their appearance, they are often broadly labeled at local fish stores as “African Cichlid” or “Assorted African Cichlids.” Ideally, the exact species of the fish should be identified, since there are various species of African Cichlids with different care requirements. These colors can include beige, brown, blue, orange, yellow, and pink. As a polymorphic species, they display a range of different colors. They don’t always display the stripes either. They are endemic to Lake Malawi, and they can be found along the eastern coast of the lake.ĭespite their name, Red Zebra Cichlid they aren’t always red. Red Zebra Cichlids ( Maylandia Estherae) are beautiful rock dwelling African Cichlid species.
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