Small Cichlids

Smaller Cichlids
The family Cichlidae comprises a large number of mostly heavy bodied fishes that are widely distributed throughout Central and South America, tropical Africa, and, to a lesser extent, southern Asia. They generally live in still or slow-moving waters, sheltering among rocks and vegetation. As males vigorously defend their territory in the wild, a single pair is usually suitable for the average aquarium. Some cichlids dig to lay their eggs in the substrate, so rooted plants in the tank will be prone to damage. The smaller cichlids, or dwarf cichlids, include Apistogramma and Pelvicachromis species. They tend to be secretive spawners, often laying their eggs inside caves or in the aquarium equivalent - an overturned flowerpot.