Malawi Cichlids

Malawi Cichlids are a very famous species of aquarium fishes. They are mainly found in the Lake Malawi. That is why this special species is popularly known as the "Malawi Cichlids". The Malawi Cichlids are divided in two major groups. These are called "Haplochromines" and "Tilapiines". The Haplochromines group of Cichlids in Malawi can also be divided into two subsections according to their colors and dwelling place. The first of them prefer open water with sand underneath. The males of this subsection are decorated with bright colors and the females are mostly silver in color. But at times there are black bars or stripes found on their body in an irregular manner. The second subsection is a little different. They are more commonly known as the "Mbuna". The term, according to the local language, means the "rock dwellers". The Mbunas are smaller in size and both the males and females of this subsection are bright in color. But at times, the females are also found in a brownish shade.

The second major group of Cichlids from Malawi is called the "Tilapiines". There are also four other species of "Chamb" or Nyasalapia found in Lake Malawi. The Malawi Cichlids are popular all over the world in the international market of aquarium fishes. The Malawi Cichlids need a fresh water tank in order to stay healthy. If harvested in tank water, the alkaline level of the water should be around pH 7.5 to pH 8.8. Rocks and limestone can be used inside the tank to maintain the pH level as well. The temperature inside the water tank should be around 24°C to 26°C or 76°F to 79° F. The Malawi Cichlids are messy in nature and can be over crowded in times. So the water tank must have provisions for enough oxygen. The Malawi Cichlids don't like bright lights, so the tank must have fluorescent lights which also make sure that the tank is never over heated. The Cichlids of Malawi are beautiful fishes and the export of these fishes help to increase the economical strength of the country.