Collection: New World Cichlids

New World cichlids comprise a diverse group of freshwater fish exhibiting remarkable variation in size, temperament, and coloration.

• Appearance: Their body shapes range from slender and tubular to robust and perch-like, with some even displaying a flattened, disk-like form. Distinctive features include a single nostril on each side, a discontinuous lateral line, and rounded tails. Many species showcase pointed rear edges on their dorsal and anal fins, along with elongated pelvic fins.
• Size: The size spectrum is broad, encompassing species from diminutive 2-inch varieties to giants reaching 3 feet in length, with the majority falling within the 12-inch range.
• Temperament: From peaceful community dwellers to highly territorial individuals, cichlid personalities are as varied as their appearances. Some even exhibit remarkable intelligence and can develop almost human-like bonds with their keepers.
• Coloration: Many male cichlids display vibrant and often striking coloration, particularly during breeding seasons.
• Diet: As omnivores, their diet is diverse, encompassing zooplankton, phytoplankton, algae, and plant matter such as lettuce, spinach, and duckweed.
• Water Requirements: Adequate aeration is crucial for all cichlids. Water chemistry needs to align with the specific requirements of each species, with some thriving in soft, acidic conditions while others prefer hard, alkaline water.
• Breeding: Cichlids are oviparous, and many species exhibit fascinating parental care, including mouthbrooding, where the parents incubate the eggs within their mouths.