umbrella cichlids

Hi, ValarieR is correct, basically they are a dwarf cichlid from South America I believe. Cave spawners showing parantel care, they are harem breeders, generally one male to 2 or more females.

Males have better colouration esp around breeding time. They live well in a black water type set up ie soft acidic water with plenty of bogwood. To breed you must have these conditions although they will live in neutral and slightly hard water if acclimatised correctly. Ideal tankmates are small shoaling tetra from the same region, bristlenose pleco's (Ancistrus sp) and other small peaceful fish.

They may be terratorial towards other males of the same genus and also towards other dwarfs such as rams, although if the tank is big enough you can keep several different species of dwarf cichlid together. as a general rule you need 1 foot by 2 foot of floor space per group, a group being 1 male and 1 - 3 females. so in a standard 4 foot long by 12" wide aquarium you could keep 2 males and several females. Using decor and plants to break up the line of site will increase stocking capability.

Your welcome