Freshwater African Orange Cichlid

Considerations

• Freshwater African orange cichlids require careful consideration before purchase. For example, if an existing tank is densely populated with plants, introducing an African orange cichlid to the tank will soon result in the plants being eaten, because African oranges are omnivorous, eating both plant and animal matter. Research the fish carefully before placing it in a tank with other fish. While some species of fish are compatible with African orange cichlids, many other species are considered prey.

Tank Size

• With all cichlids, including the African orange, tank size is critical. If cichlids stay in small tanks, their aggressive behavior intensifies. The minimum tank size for the African orange is 30 gallons, though a larger tank is preferable. The tank environment needs a large quantity of rocks, as the African orange enjoys having "safe" areas in which to hide. However, because African orange cichlids possess strong territorial instincts, the rocks should be periodically moved in order to cut down on territorial behavior.

Feeding

• African orange cichlids are omnivores, but are primarily herbivores. In addition to cichlid food, the African orange also eats any algae growing in the tank. Their diet can be augmented with occasional animal additions, such as shrimp or crickets, but too much animal protein leads to a condition known as Malawi bloat. Malawi bloat is fatal, making it vital to make sure the African orange does not receive too much protein.

Reproduction

• African orange cichlids breed readily in captivity. When the time comes for breeding, the fish become tremendously aggressive. Being egg layers, the African orange cichlid places the eggs on a hard surface, guarding them until they hatch. After hatching, the young cichlids (known as "fry") receive protection from the female. The female African orange transports the fry inside her mouth, protecting them until they are able to fend for themselves.

Hybrids

• Some cichlid enthusiasts recommend keeping African orange cichlids in tanks only with other African oranges. This reduces the risk of an African orange reproducing with another species of cichlid, resulting in a hybrid. Rather than diluting the African orange gene pool, the enthusiast wants the species to remain pure.