African Cichlids - Salt or not

Question
Hi Karen...
I have a variety of Malawi Cichlids and was wondering if they REALLY need salt and buffers??
My tap water has been adjusted to 7.2 and the GH/KH is about 53 without buffers.
I tried doing a water change and not adding salt and buffers and the fish seemed to go crazy!
Do they REALLY need salt and buffers?
Thanks!

Answer
Dear Joe,
No, the special cichlid salt is not generally needed to maintain healthy colorful Malawi cichlids. But they do need a high buffering capacity and a good pH level. This can easily be maintained by using baking soda to adjust the chemistry and then you may use crushed coral in the tank or filter to maintain it at a consistant level. Artificial buffers may also be used to keep the pH at a decent level.

Due to their natural habitat in Lake Malawi (of course!) which keeps at a high pH, it is best to replicate this as much as possible.

The one thing you should really evaluate is how well your fish are doing also. Are they always brightly colored and full of energy and good health? Perhaps have they even spawned or attempted to spawn? Do they have healthy appetites and behave naturally? Knowing how happy your fish are is the most valuable indicator of how suitable their water conditions are.

If you would like more information on Malawi cichlids please visit-
"Malawimayhem.com"

I hope this helps!
Best wishes and Happy holidays!
Karen~