Guides

African Cichlid

Hard Water Fish and Rift Lake Chemistry

Rift lake cichlids evolved in liquid rock — hard, alkaline water with stable pH above 7.8 is non-negotiable for long-term health.

A slender Malawi mbuna with electric blue bodies and yellow fins — more of an algae browser than many rock-dwelling cousins.

One of Lake Malawi’s most popular mbuna — brilliant yellow bodies, manageable aggression for African cichlids, and nonstop rock-hopping energy.

A majestic Tanganyikan cichlid with a nuchal hump and bold bars — calm for a large African cichlid, but needs big water and patient growth.