Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum
Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum is a small, dynamic fish from the perch family, which can be confidently recommended to novice cichlid aquarists. The predominant pluses of this type of aquarium fish are: bright, contrasting body coloration; mobility and activity; not fastidious in feeding; survivability; easy breeding. All these characteristics explain the continued popularity of Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum.
How to choose according to external differences
This monogamous fish should be purchased in pairs, you can have a small flock (6-8 pieces). At a rate of 80-100 liters of water in the aquarium per couple. Females externally markedly smaller in size than males. Distinctive features of males as adults are cone-shaped convex forehead, large lips, large eyes, elongated body. Bright contrasting stripes on the fish's body resemble the color of a zebra. Usually there are up to 10 stripes on the fish. Females are smaller, with the same body coloration, have a convex, rounded belly, with more or less pronounced orange spots. In the aquarium, adults of this fish species reach an average of 10 cm, rarely up to 15 cm.
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Habitat conditions and care
Care of fish is not complicated. It is important to provide optimal conditions in an artificial habitat. This is a medium sized soil, in the form of fine pebbles, gravel or granite crumbs, given the fact that the fish will systematically undermine it. It is desirable to conduct a rational zoning of the aquarium with artificial grottos, caves, decorative snags or a massive root system of stable aquatic plants. Also as a shelter house for the fish use coconut shells. Spawning may also take place here. The water temperature should be maintained from 23 ° C to 26 ° C. Acid-alkaline composition of the aquarium in the range of 7-8 pH. Regular filtration of water is necessary, as well as the substitution of 30% of water for fresh every 7-10 days.
Compatibility and harmonious proximity
Active fish generally get along with similar cichlids, but it is likely to be particularly aggressive during the spawning period. Therefore, it is preferable to provide them with a separate habitat. Optimal compatibility Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum with large and medium-sized cichlids, barbs, gourami, Labeo, etc.. But catfish can interfere with a comfortable living, because they like to swim into the territory, the bottom of the aquarium during the spawning period Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum. It will not get along with large and aggressive fish species, as well as too small and quiet.
Proper nutrition for your pets.
Striped pets need a variety of foods to function properly. This includes live food, plant food and quality dry food. Tubifex, artemia, moths, caddis, shredded cabbage leaves, and individual dry food for perches are suitable for omnivorous fish.
Reproduction
To provoke spawning, a slight increase in water temperature by 1-2 ° C, with a substitution of about 25% of the water. The process occurs without the intervention of aquarists, independently, year-round. After spawning, the parents protect the territory and can be aggressive to uninvited "guests". The female carries healthy larvae in a cozy, sheltered place. After 2-3 days, fry swim out of their hiding place and swim under the cover and control of the parents. The female fins lift small amounts of food from the bottom, to feed the young. As a feed, you can use crushed dry, plant food.
You can read more about the aquarium for cichlazomas here.
