How to raise Sanhu cichlids
The Sanhu cichlid is a colorful and lively ornamental fish that is very popular among aquarium enthusiasts. They are native to Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria in Africa, hence the name "Three Lakes Cichlids". If you want to raise Sanhu cichlids well, you need to understand their living habits, water quality requirements, feeding methods, etc. This article will give you a detailed introduction to the key points of raising Sanhu cichlids.
1. Basic introduction to Sanhu Cichlids

Three Lakes Cichlids belong to the Cichlididae family, and there are many species, with various sizes and colors. They usually like to live in alkaline hard water and have high requirements for water quality. Here are some common species of Three Lakes cichlids and their characteristics:
| Kind | Origin | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Malawi cichlids | Lake Malawi | Bright colors and lively personality |
| Tanganyika cichlids | lake tanganyika | Large size and strong territorial awareness |
| victorian cichlid | lake victoria | Small size, strong adaptability |
2. The breeding environment of Sanhu cichlids
1.Water quality requirements: Sanhu cichlids like alkaline hard water, the pH value should be maintained between 7.5-9.0, and the hardness should be 10-20 dGH. Unstable water quality can cause fish to become dull or even sick.
2.water temperature control: The suitable water temperature for Sanhu cichlids is 24-28°C. In winter, a heating rod is required to keep the water temperature stable.
3.Fish tank layout: Sanhu cichlids like environments with rocks and caves. You can place rocks, sunken wood and other landscaping materials in the fish tank to provide them with space to hide and breed.
| Environmental parameters | suitable range |
|---|---|
| pH value | 7.5-9.0 |
| Hardness | 10-20 dGH |
| water temperature | 24-28℃ |
3. Feed and feeding of Sanhu cichlids
1.Feed selection: Sanhu cichlids are omnivorous fish and can feed on artificial feed, frozen feed and live bait. It is recommended to choose a high-protein feed specifically designed for cichlids.
2.Feeding frequency: Feed 1-2 times a day, and the amount of each feeding should be enough that the fish can finish it within 3-5 minutes. Avoid overfeeding to avoid contaminating water quality.
| Feed type | Recommended brands |
|---|---|
| artificial feed | JBL Novo Malawi |
| frozen feed | Bloodworms, brine shrimp |
| live bait | water fleas, red worms |
4. Breeding and Polyculture of Three Lakes Cichlids
1.Reproductive characteristics: Sanhu cichlids are mostly mouth-brooding fish, and the female fish will hold the fertilized eggs in her mouth to hatch them. A quiet environment and ample hiding space must be provided during breeding.
2.Mixed culture advice: Sanhu cichlids have a strong sense of territory. When mixed, fish of similar size and gentle temperament need to be selected to avoid fights. Here are some fish suitable for polyculture:
| polyculture fish | Features |
|---|---|
| blue jasmine | Gentle personality and bright colors |
| zebra finch | Small size and flexible movement |
| pearl tiger | Calm personality, suitable for low-level activities |
5. Frequently Asked Questions and Solutions
1.Fish body color is dull: It may be due to poor water quality or insufficient feed nutrition. It is recommended to test the water quality and replace high-protein feed.
2.injured in fight: Improper mixed culture or insufficient space may lead to fights, so the fish tank layout needs to be adjusted or the stocking density needs to be reduced.
3.disease prevention: Changing the water regularly and keeping the water clean are the keys to preventing diseases. If sick fish are found, they should be isolated and treated promptly.
Summary
Raising Sanhu cichlids requires attention to water quality, feed and environmental layout. With proper husbandry and management, you can enjoy the brilliant colors and lively behavior of these beautiful fish. I hope this article can help you better raise Three Lakes cichlids!
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