Why are my cichlids chasing each other?

Most cichlid movements are either threats or flirting. Shimmying or shaking of the fins and tail are usually signs of flirtation. I’ve also seen circular chasing and nipping or kissing (where the two fish grab each other’s mouths) prior to mating. Chasing across the tank is more often a sign of aggression.

What do you do with an aggressive fish?

Here are some tips to help you deal with the aggressive fish in your aquarium.

1. Use a Net to Separate the Fish.
2. Rearrange Your Aquarium Decoration.
3. Add New Hiding Spots in your Aquarium.
4. Separate Your Passive Fish.
5. Isolate the Bully.
6. Get a Bigger Aquarium.
7. Move the Aggressive Fish into a Different Aquarium.

How do I know if my cichlids are fighting?

Aggression. Many species of cichlid grab each other by the lips to wrestle. Males most often engage in this behavior. This behavior can stem from a territorial dispute or showing off for females.

Do cichlids bite?

As you can see, although Cichlids are known for being some fairly aggressive aquarium fish, especially towards other fish, they really are no threat to humans. They don’t bite all that often, and when they do, it usually won’t hurt either.

How can you tell if a cichlid is stressed?

Strange Swimming: When fish are stressed, they often develop odd swimming patterns. If your fish is swimming frantically without going anywhere, crashing at the bottom of his tank, rubbing himself on gravel or rocks, or locking his fins at his side, he may be experiencing significant stress.

Is it normal for cichlids to fight?

Many species of cichlid grab each other by the lips to wrestle. Males most often engage in this behavior. This behavior can stem from a territorial dispute or showing off for females. Cichlids can injure each other pretty badly with this behavior.

Should I remove an aggressive fish?

Don’t simply dismiss fish that are aggressive, they may disrupt the peace in your tank. Many species of fish are naturally aggressive which can lead to problems with attacks on other fish in the tank.

How do I stop Malawi cichlids from fighting?

To stop your Cichlids bullying you should:

1. Keep them well fed.
2. Limit The number of males.
3. Provide them good cover/hiding spaces.
4. Add new fish in groups.
5. Slightly overcrowd the tank.
6. Change aquarium setup when adding new Cichlids.
7. Ensure they have enough horizontal space.
8. Mix Cichlid species (varying colorations)

What is the least aggressive cichlid fish?

• Bolivian rams. Bolivian rams are one of the least aggressive African cichlids.
• German blue rams. These fish are brilliantly colored with a blue and yellow body, a red head, and yellow fins, all decorated with vibrant blue dots.
• Keyholes. Keyholes are possibly the least aggressive African cichlids.
• Yellow labs.
• Blue acaras.

What are some less agressive cichlids?

Bolivian Ram Cichlids. Bolivian Ram Cichlids have an attractive golden-brown color,with red and turquoise highlights.

Keyhold Cichlids. Keyhole Cichlids are another peaceful cichlid.

Blue Acara Cichlids. Blue Acara Cichlids are peaceful.

Yellow Lab Cichlids.

German Blue Ram Cichlids.

Can cichlids get along with guppies?

In general, ram cichlids can live in harmony with guppies in a community tank. Rams are considered one of the more docile species of cichlid, so they tend to get along with other peaceful fish, like guppies. Other cichlids that house well with guppies include angelfish, dwarfs, kribs, and keyholes.

Are cichlids hard to keep?

Many dwarf cichlids and Apistogrammas have a reputation of being hard to keep and it is true that some species have requirements that many may find hard to provide. However, there are quite a few dwarf cichlids that can be kept without any special care. The key is to provide good water, good food and good habitat.

Do cichlids get along with these types of fish?

The golden rule is that you must only choose fish that will not bully or pick on the Cichlids. It is believed that most Cichlids will get along with fish species such as Tetra , and Corydoras Catfish , just to mention a few. The following table indicates the type of fish that work best with various Cichlids.