A cichlid fish belongs to the family Cichlidae, and comes under the order Perciformes. This family is not only large but consists of some of the most diverse species in the world. Almost 1300 species have already been scientifically described with estimates of around 2,000 to 3,000 more. This makes the cichlid fish family one of the largest vertebrate families in the world. Coming in a wide range of body sizes and shapes, the resemblance with the North American sunfishes is more prominent in the cichlid fish.
Cichlid Fish – Description and Features
Cichlid fish varies in size and shape, and ranges from species that are almost 2.5 centimeters long, to larger species almost 1 meter in length. Since they belong to the same family, the cichlids exhibit somewhat similar diversity in the body shape as well. The fishes can vary from strong lateral compressed species, to the one having highly elongated cylindrical body structure. However, a more standard cichlid is more likely to be of medium size, and is slightly laterally compressed with an ovate shape. The medium sized cichlid fish resembles more a North American sunfish in its behavior, morphology and ecology. Some of the members of the cichlid family are the best aquarium possessions, and looks stunningly beautiful in marine water. The unique features that distinguish the cichlid family from other in the group are a single nostril o either side of the forehead, absence of bony shelf under the eye orbit, division of the lateral line organ in two sections, and plenty of attractive colors. The attractive colors and shapes make your aquarium look more beautiful with the cichlid.
Cichlid fish food habits
Cichlid fish has become immensely popular as aquarium fish, and are easy to feed and nourish. The cichlids are generally herbivores, and feeds on marine plants and algae. The small animals and fishes, especially the invertebrates, are just a small part of their food habits. However, there is another class of cichlids who are detritivores in nature, and feed on all kinds of organic materials. Among these are the tilapiines, as the most popular ones. Another class of the cichlid is predatory, and eats no plant material as such. The small animals, insect larvae, small fishes, and plenty of other varieties are the easy catch for these types of fishes. Each of these fish demonstrates diverse behavior while they prey for their food, and varies in huge numbers. The wide variety of feeding styles has actually helped the cichlids to inhabit in diverse habitats. However, with plenty of fish food readily available in the market, feeding has become more convenient and enjoyable for your cichlid fish.
Popular Aquarium Cichlid fish Variety
Cichlid fish has become very popular as aquarium fish since the year 1945, and the craze continues to grow with the unique colors and shapes available for each species in the same family. The most popular and common Cichlid fish species is the Pterophyllum scalare, popularly known as the angel fish. The other mid-sized attractive species are Convict, Oscar, and Discus. Each of these varieties is easily available in the market. So, go shopping today for your best aquarium possession, the cichlid fish.