A Quick Guide to the Brichardi Cichlid
The Brichardi Cichlid is a freshwater aquarium fish that can grow up to 6-inches long; this fish can be either aggressive or peaceful, depending on the species of fish they share a tank with. Originally from Africa, these fish are some of the most popular aquarium fish breeds today. To keep this species of fish, you will need a tank that is at least 20 gallons, but it is preferable that you have a bigger tank, especially if you have more than one or two of these fish.
These fish are extremely beautiful and are very different than other African Cichlid fish. This breed is tan, but will have yellow marking towards the back of the body. The fins on this fish are trimmed with white and bluish edging, which gives them a unique and exotic appearance.
To setup a tank for the Brichardi Cichlid there are a few things that you should keep in mind, such as the fact that this breed of fish prefer that there be a lot of decorations in the tank. The reason for this is that they like to have their own territory within the tank, and decorations provide hiding areas that they can claim as their own. In addition to decorations, you will also need to ensure that there is plenty of open space, as these fish do like to swim around a lot.
Due to the fact that the Brichardi Cichlid likes to dig, you will have to be sure that your large rocks and plants are anchored well. This is especially true for large rocks because the fish may move them while digging and injure themselves.
Diet is also important for the Brichardi Cichlid; these fish will eat flake food, as well as frozen. The only thing you should remember is that the food that you are feeding them should be high in nutritional value.
As for tank mates for the Brichardi Cichlid, these fish will get along well together, but if you have them with other fish breeds they will likely become very aggressive. If your tank is bigger than 35 gallons, you might be able to keep a Brichardi Cichlid in the tank with other species, but if there is more than one you can be sure that they will kill the other fish. It is best to keep this breed of fish only with others of its kind.
This breed of fish is really very easy to breed; when a male and female pair up they will stay together throughout their lives. Due to the fact that the Brichardi Cichlid will spawn in underwater caves when they are in the wild, you will need to ensure that you have cave like dwelling in your tank.
When these fish do breed they will produce about 100 fry. The Brichardi Cichlids are good parents; they will continue to care for their young for several months after they hatch. To feed the fry you will need to use crushed flakes and brine shrimp.
If you want to start a freshwater tank but want fish that provide the beauty that you would get with a saltwater tank, consider the Brichardi Cichlid; these exotic fish add beauty to the tank, and they are very easy to care for.
This breed of fish is often available at fish stores, but you might be able to get a better deal if you contact a private breeder.
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