There are so many types of cichlids – let alone the African cichlid types. If you think that African cichlids merely consist of one group, then you are mistaken, my friend. According to the Animal World, there are more than 2,000 cichlid types in this universe. But for the information of those who are new to keeping cichlids, they are freshwater fish that have a wide range of color, behavior and body types. They are very popular as an aquarium fish because they are so easy to feed, breed and maintain. And it is best if you get to know the different types so you can decide which ones are perfect for your aquarium and home.

The Lake Tanganyika African comes from several types of lakes and environments. Tanganyika is along the Tanzania borderline, the republic of Congo, Burundi and Zambia. The Cichlids from this lake can adapt to an open water environment, even to a rocky environment or one with a shell bed. The shell bed is the sandy part of the lake where empty snail shells are scattered. The sand and the shells are hiding places for Lake Tanganyika African Cichlids.

The Tropheus Cichlids are also native of Lake Tanganyika and they are usually found along the lake’s coastal areas. They prefer shores that are rocky with many hiding places and they are the type who prefer to remain in shallow waters. They eat algae and they thrive best in areas where there is enough light. This is because when there is enough light, algae growth is abundant.

The Goby Cichlids also live in Lake Tanganyika and they are also usually three inches in length. They love shores that are close to shallow waters. There are five species that are recognized that are classified as goby cichlids, another two are the spotfin goby and the blue goby cichlids.

The Lake Malawi African are very well-known for their striking patterns and bright colors. There are more than 800 cichlid species of Lake Malawi and only 300 are described and recognized. The red empress, the dogtooth and the electric blue harp are included in this cichlid type.

The Zebras cichlid fish are also known as Mbuna cichlids. They are the type that are native of Lake Malawi in Africa. They dwell in rocky areas and many cichlid types fall under this category. Red zebra, blue daktari and kenyi cichlids are among the few that belong in this group.

The Peacock Cichlids are also native of Lake Malawi and there are 28 species known to be peacock cichlids. They come in brilliant reds, also in blues and yellows. They often have iridescent scales and they are not as aggressive as the other types.

If you were to choose one cichlid fish to own – what is your choice? With so many common cichlid species to choose from, you will never go wrong. What is needed is just your commitment to take good care of these remarkable creatures for a long time by learning the basics of cichlid fish care.