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Cichlidify your tank - Lake Malawi Style!


Kitchie lids, chikle lid and cheek lids, are a few of the names that unknowing fish enthusiasts, especially those who are new to the hobby, call these awesome collection of colorful fishes. The correct way to pronounce the word cichlid however, is "sick-lid".

One particular group of cichlids that we at MAGS-Pets are trying to introduce to the local hobbyists are Lake Malawi Cichlids. They are one of the most popular type of cichlids available in the aquarium hobby today, due to the fact that they are hardy and they come in a wide range of colors and variety.

The basic stuff you will need so you can take home this awesome group of fish and amaze your family and friend are listed below. Take some time to check it out.

1. An aquarium (obviously)
- If you're dealing with a group of juvenile or cichlid fry, a 15 gallon tank will suffice for a start (standard dimension:24"x12"x12"). In a couple of months you will need bigger tank to house your now bigger cichlids. The bigger your tank, the better.
Just a simple setup. Nothing fancy but it works.
2. A filter system
- A great filter system is key to achieve lively and healthy cichlids. Make sure that the filter system you choose will be able to handle the wastes your fishes will produce so that you will be able to maintain the quality of your tank water. Do not depend however only on your filter system. Regular water changes is still a must so keep that bucket and hose handy.
A DIY filter system we have installed on an outdoor pond. A good filtration system doesn't need to be expensive.

3. Substrate, hardscapes
- Sand substrates are the best for Lake Malawi cichlids though you must make sure that the substrate is clean and well-rinsed before using it in the aquarium. Avoid using driftwood in your setup as it tends to lower the PH level of your water which will not be compatible for your soon-to-be best buddies who loves water with high PH levels. Smooth river rocks, especially those with algae for them to nibble on works best. Just make sure that you place them securely in your tank so that the rocks will not fall and break your tank.  You can design it anyway you may want but a natural look is the best, especially if its Lake Malawi Style! Keep in mind that cichlids love to move your substrate around while making their favorite hangout spot or nesting area and this might cause a rock or two to be moved from their original location. You have been warned! (wink) 
An empty tank for newly hatched cichlid fry are good but as they grow older, a tank with hardscapes and substrate is a great way to encourage them to exhibit their natural behavior. Cichlids in barren tanks are often skittish and usually just hide behind pumps or internal filters so start aquascaping your cichlid tank.


Now, what you need to do is to have your tank cycled for at least two weeks, then its time to do some shopping! Stay tuned for the second part of our "Cichlidify Your Tank" article for tips on how to choose the right cichlids for your tank, Lake Malawi Style!

Till then, Happy pet-keeping! :D

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