Currently there are more than 800 Malawi cichlids known to exist, compared to roughly 750 North American freshwater species. In recent years, Malawi cichlids have become popular specimens for African cichlid aquaria, especially for large community aquariums.
Malawi Cichlid Origins and Water Conditions
Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa is the ninth largest lake in the world and is situated in the countries of Malawi, Tanzania, and Mozambique. Taking this fact into account, the aquarist can’t be blamed for being unable to provide a suitable lake in which to house his cichlids, but the larger the aquarium the better. One of the primary reasons a large aquarium is desirable is due to the pH buffering effect of greater volumes of available water. Typical conditions in Lake Malawi consist of a pH between 7.8 and 8.5, more alkaline than most tap water. Since alterations to the aquarium’s water will most likely be necessary, a larger volume of water makes balancing water chemistry easier.
Being residents of Africa, Malawi cichlids prefer warmer waters in the neighborhood of 73-82 degrees Fahrenheit (23-28 degrees Celsius). Such warmth of the water combined with Malawi cichlid’s physiology requires that the water posses high oxygen content. A powerful air pump should be considered for proper aeration of the aquarium.
Thirty percent water changes should be performed at least once a week. Frequent water changes will also help control ammonia levels due to fluctuations in pH. Always be sure to dechlorinate the water.
A good filter with plenty of biological filtration media should be used to encourage the growth of nitrifying bacteria. A suitable sponge filter or canister filter are good choices.
Aquarium Setup and Emulating the Conditions of Lake Malawi
Unless the cichlids are to be placed in a planted aquarium, lighting should be subdued to better simulate lake conditions while accentuating the natural colors of the fish. Subdued lighting will also help reduce stress levels in the fish. Malawi cichlids are very sensitive to light and movement. The aquarium should be placed where there is little noise or traffic to startle them, and little peripheral light or sunlight should shine into the aquarium.
Malawi cichlids typically prefer a fine or sandy substrate. Plenty of hiding spots and caves with several open sandy areas will help keep the fish happy and provide a healthy environment for potential breeding. Smooth rocks make excellent decorations, but make sure not to stack or place them in unbalanced positions unless they are properly secured. Cichlids are burrowers and their activity in the substrate could cause the rocks to shift and fall.
Be cautious adding wood to the aquarium, as it may lower pH in the water. Limestone, sodium bicarbonate, or other additives can be used to raise pH and buffer the water.
Feeding Malawi Cichlids
There are both carnivorous and herbivorous Malawi cichlids. Feed respective species appropriately. Be sure to offer a varied and balanced diet, including fish, shrimp, worms, and vegetable matter consisting or raw vegetables, algae wafers, and spirulina. Do not overfeed.
Foods high in fat (especially animal fat) or an excess of food should be avoided. These foods and feeding practices cannot be properly processed by Malawi cichlids and can lead to bloating, which if not immediately addressed, can often be fatal.
Malawi cichlids are full of character and rank among some of the most beautiful fish available to the hobby. Provided the aquarist can provide a healthy environment with a healthy diet and regular water changes, keeping Malawi cichlids can be a fulfilling and educational experience.
Source: Konings, Ad. Back to Nature Guide to Malawi Cichlids. 2nd Edition. 2003.
Aaron Guzman - Aaron Guzman currently lives in Eureka, California and works as a freelance writer. He spends his spare time writing fiction, playing ...
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