A complex set of muscles allows the upper and lower pharyngeal bones to be used as a second set of jaws for processing food, allowing a division of labor between the "true jaws" ( mandibles) and the " pharyngeal jaws". Ĭichlids share a single key trait - the fusion of the lower pharyngeal bones into a single tooth-bearing structure. Generally, however, cichlids tend to be of medium size, ovate in shape, and slightly laterally compressed, and generally similar to the North American sunfishes in morphology, behavior, and ecology. As a group, cichlids exhibit a similar diversity of body shapes, ranging from strongly laterally compressed species (such as Altolamprologus, Pterophyllum, and Symphysodon) to species that are cylindrical and highly elongated (such as Julidochromis, Teleogramma, Teleocichla, Crenicichla, and Gobiocichla). Īll cichlids practice some form of parental care for their eggs and fry, usually in the form of guarding the eggs and fry or mouthbrooding.Īnatomy and appearance Relationships within the Labrodei Ĭichlids span a wide range of body sizes, from species as small as 2.5 cm (1 in) in length (e.g., female Neolamprologus multifasciatus) to much larger species approaching 1 m (3 ft) in length ( Boulengerochromis and Cichla). Many cichlids introduced into waters outside of their natural range have become nuisances. Their diversity in the African Great Lakes is important for the study of speciation in evolution. Cichlids are particularly well known for having evolved rapidly into many closely related but morphologically diverse species within large lakes, particularly Lakes Tanganyika, Victoria, Malawi, and Edward. Cichlids have the largest number of endangered species among vertebrate families, most in the haplochromine group. The family also includes many popular freshwater aquarium fish kept by hobbyists, including the angelfish, oscars, and discus. Many cichlids, particularly tilapia, are important food fishes, while others, such as the Cichla species, are valued game fish. The actual number of species is therefore unknown, with estimates varying between 2,000 and 3,000. New species are discovered annually, and many species remain undescribed. At least 1,650 species have been scientifically described, making it one of the largest vertebrate families. This family is large, diverse, and widely dispersed. The closest living relative of cichlids is probably the convict blenny, and both families are classified in the 5th edition of Fishes of the World as the two families in the Cichliformes, part of the subseries Ovalentaria. On the basis of fossil evidence, it first appeared in Tanzania during the Eocene epoch, about 46–45 million years ago. Cichlids were traditionally classed in a suborder, the Labroidei, along with the wrasses ( Labridae), in the order Perciformes, but molecular studies have contradicted this grouping. If spawning is desired, tankmates of other species should be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether.Are fish from the family Cichlidae in the order Cichliformes. Dwarf shrimp and other small, delicate invertebrates should not be kept with the Yellow Flash Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, but more durable, larger shrimp and snails could possibly make good tankmates in a large enough aquarium. Territoriality is typically at its peak during spawning. This cichlid is generally compatible with other peaceful fish as long as it has plenty of space. It is an excellent candidate for the planted aquarium, but it also needs a fair amount of open space. The Yellow Flash Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid will thrive in an aquarium with a sandy substrate and plenty of refuge such as clay pots, driftwood, and rock formations. As with most dwarf cichlids, females are less colorful, but still have an attractive appearance and plenty of personality. The body is typically a blue-violet sheen with a black horizontal stripe, which make for a very distinctive and beautiful appearance. This striking dwarf cichlid is a unique color morph of the Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid ( Apistogramma cacatuoides) and is certain to be the centerpiece of any aquarium! Males are particularly colorful, boasting yellow coloration on the ample dorsal fin as well as the tail and anal fin. The Yellow Flash Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid is a rarely seen yellow color morph of the classic Apistogramma cacatuoides. Bredby: Aquatic Arts and Locally-Bred Livestock.KatsAquatics Calcium+ Foods for Inverts.
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