Cichlid Aquarium Setup - The Essentials

Orchestrating the perfect cichlid aquarium set up is not as difficult as it may seem. There are just a few essential facts you should know before attempting it. The following article will provide any potential cichlid owner the essential information needed for a successful cichlid aquarium setup.

Tank size

It is vital that your cichlid have plenty of space for many reasons. The breed itself enjoys having enough room to swim freely. In addition, an abundance of space is necessary to prevent aggressiveness in the fish. An optimal tank size for a cichlid aquarium set up can range from 20 gallons on up, depending on the specific breed of cichlid you wish to house and how many. A cichlid should never be placed in a tank with less than a 20 gallon water capacity.

In addition, your cichlid aquarium set up should include a water filter and pump to accommodate your tank size. It should also include a lid, as cichlid fish are known to jump.

Tank Decorations

Before purchasing tank decorations for you cichlid aquarium set up, educate yourself about their natural habitat. You should purchase all decorations with the fish's natural habitat in mind. While it may not be possible to replicate it exactly, you should come as close as you can in order to get the most from your new pet.

In addition to the essentials mentioned above, any cichlid aquarium set up needs to include a heat source of some kind. An electronic or digital heat source would be best because it can regulate the aquarium temperature and keep it constant.

The Most Important Consideration

I know it can be a little overwhelming with everything you need to learn before you can run a successful cichlid aquarium. When setting up the aquarium you might find it useful to keep the cichlid's native habitat in mind and model your aquarium on that. That will do three things for you. You will appreciate your cichlid more and it will be happier and more healthy. You will also have a far better understanding of your aquarium because your research each part of it to recreate a natural habitat.

If you take this hobby seriously, one of the most fun aspects of it, besides watching the pretty fish, is cichlid aquarium setup. You will get a lot more enjoyment out of your aquarium and your fish if you do it yourself.

If you are interested in learning more about cichlid aquarium setup then visit my website. You will also find pages discussing different cichlid species specific aquariums including the African cichlid aquarium.