![]() The introduction of the Nile perch into some areas of its natural range has driven a few species to extinction. Overfishing, habitat change, and invasive species have all posed dangers to cichlids. They will ram her repeatedly in an effort to make her release the eggs so it can gobble them up.īesides members of its own kind, cichlids also face predation from humans and other types of fish. They have adapted the unique strategy of targeting a mother who keeps the eggs stored safely in her mouth. Larger cichlid species consume hard-shelled mollusks by crushing the shell with their strong jaws or sucking out the prey.Ī select few species will consume entire eggs or larvae of other cichlids. Many cichlids cruise through algae beds or the muddy floor and passively filter out small prey from the surrounding water such as zooplankton (tiny marine animals) and phytoplankton (small photosynthetic plant matter). This dietary strategy is almost always reflected in the fish’s physical characteristics. Cichlid Predators and PreyĬichlids vary between being fully herbivorous and fully carnivorous, depending on the species. Their popularity is due to their varied scale colors and patterns. They are also raised on fish farms and sold to restaurants and businesses.Ĭichlids of all types are kept by fish enthusiasts with home aquariums. In terms of commercial fishing, tilapia is a type of cichlid caught and eaten by people throughout the world. For instance, the Maingano cichlid lives at a depth of around 16 feet while a red zebra cichlid lives at 30 feet. Not surprisingly, different cichlids reside at different depths. Specifically, biologists estimate that Lake Malawi in Africa is home to over 1,000 types. Most cichlids live in freshwater rivers and lakes in Africa, Central America, and South America. ©Studio 37/ Cichlid Distribution, Population, and Habitat Where to Find Cichlids and How to Catch Them Discus fishes are native to the Amazon River. Large cichlids have fewer predators but can be targets of fishermen.īaby Discus Cichlid fish swimming with parent. Many of them take shelter in rock crevices to escape larger fish or other predators. Smaller cichlids are vulnerable to predators. Dwarf African shell dwellers are less than an ounce whereas a giant cichlid can weigh seven pounds or more. Species can greatly differ in weight as well. Alternatively, the African giant cichlid is the biggest type measuring 36 inches. The Neolamprologus ocellatus is a dwarf African cichlid growing to two inches. These fish can be as small as two inches in length and as large as 36 inches. These spiny fins stand up while this fish swims. Alternatively, a Livingstonii cichlid, also a mbuna, has a silver body with black splotches.Ĭichlids have ray-fins on their back and underbelly. As an example, an African butterfly peacock cichlid has brilliant yellow scales with bright blue fins. With so many types of cichlids in existence, this fish can claim practically any color on the spectrum. ![]() These cichlids may swim as deep as 75 feet in Lake Malawi. Venustus cichlid: This cichlid has blue scales with white stripes.It grows to a length of three to four inches. Electric yellow cichlid: This mbuna is known for its brilliant yellow scales.Bumblebee cichlid: The bumble cichlid is aptly named for its yellow body covered with black stripes.Peacock cichlids: These cichlids have scales with dazzling color combinations of yellow, blue, orange, silver, red, and black.See all of our entertaining and insightful animal articles. What Do Cherry Shrimp Eat? 10 of their Favorite Foods.12 Types of Blue Fish: Different Aquarium Fish that are Blue.
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