Cichlids for sale in the Netherlands

Cichlids: behaviour and suitability

A territory may be defended permanently or mainly during breeding. Species may live alone, as pairs or in groups. Insufficient space can make territorial fights serious. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Match tank length, social structure, temperature, hardness, pH, diet and furnishing to the exact species and region of origin. Provide enough space and hides and combine only fish with compatible needs and sizes. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Choose active, non-thin fish with clean skin and normal body shape and swimming. Dull skin, clamped fins, crooked or rocking swimming and poorly healing wounds are warning signs. White spot, velvet, fin rot and hole-in-the-head disease in some South American species occur. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.