Ibn raises an excellent point. When most people talk about African cichlids, they're really talking about African Rift cichlids from the East African lakes. All those species thrive in hard, alkaline waters. But West African cichlids like Pelvivachromis like soft water, same as most South American species. In terms of water parameters, African Rift cichlids are much more compatible with Central American species, though not necessarily in terms of temperament. As much as possible, it's best to keep cichlids from one region together. And also best not to have too many different species together except with the African Rift cichlids which thrive in large, mixed communities.
|