African Cichlid 101........?

[mikeyost12]

so its my first time keeping African cichlids in a aquarium and they all look very healthy and are very active so I think. With this being my first time with cichlids what are their overall behavior like? What do they do that is considered normal behavior in a aquarium? What signs should I watch for that is a indicator that the fish is not doing good? What are just some good things to know in regard to the African Cichlid family of fish?

Thanks

 

[coralbandit]

What kind of Africans ?
Malawi or Tanganyikan ?

 

[V227]

Mike
You've asked a very broad question. Regarding normal behavior, depends on the type of Africans. Mbuna = Rock dwellers, Haps and Peacocks = mid to upper level swimmers.
Mbuna are very territorial and need a lot of caves and hiding spots. Haps and Peacocks are cruisers. You can expect a lot of chasing, split or nipped fins, and the occasional death.
Look for a fish that isolates itself, darkens and stops eating. Likely a subordinate male that needs to be removed. There are just too many variables to provide a comprehensive answer but I hope what little I provided helps.

 

[mikeyost12]

Mike
You've asked a very broad question. Regarding normal behavior, depends on the type of Africans. Mbuna = Rock dwellers, Haps and Peacocks = mid to upper level swimmers.
Mbuna are very territorial and need a lot of caves and hiding spots. Haps and Peacocks are cruisers. You can expect a lot of chasing, split or nipped fins, and the occasional death.
Look for a fish that isolates itself, darkens and stops eating. Likely a subordinate male that needs to be removed. There are just too many variables to provide a comprehensive answer but I hope what little I provided helps.

It does help a lot. I know it was extremely broad, and was just looking for a overall generic answer and I appreciate your help

 

[mikeyost12]

What kind of Africans ?
Malawi or Tanganyikan ?

They are Malawi