Cichlids are a popular aquarium fish which many people keep in their tropical fish tanks.  HEre is a guide for looking after your cichlids properly.

Temperature – the ideal temperature range for cichlids is between 22-28 degrees celcius.  If your aquarium is hotter than this, make sure you keep fewer fish!

pH and Water Hardness – the pH level needs to be around 7.8-8.5 which is neutral towards alkaline.  Use the white limestone or coral substrate to help get the right balance.  The water hardeness should be around 10-15dH, giving similar conditions to the Malawi lake in Africa, where cichlids sometimes come from.

Maximum Growth Size – most cichlids grow to around 6″ in length, but some can actually grow to around 12″. Make sure that you think about the size of the tank you will require!