Dwarf Cichlids

Dwarf cichlids

The group of dwarf cichlids is not a clearly defined group of fish from a specific family. When compiling this group of fish, more attention is paid to the size of the fish. The group of dwarf cichlids consists of all cichlids that do not grow larger than about 10 to 12 centimeters.

Different authors and websites have different ideas about the maximum length and origin of the fish. Some only consider South American cichlids less than 10 centimeters long to be dwarf cichlids, while others also include West African and/or smaller Malawi cichlids.

On this site, we use the following characteristics to determine whether a species belongs to the dwarf cichlids or not:

• All origins
• Total length including tail up to 10 centimeters
• Belonging to the Cichlidae family

Origin of dwarf cichlids

Because the maximum length is decisive for this group, dwarf cichlids can come from anywhere. However, many species that remain somewhat smaller are found in South America. The genus Apistogramma in particular has many cichlids that remain small. A combination with Corydoras species is often discouraged because they do not care about any territory formed by the dwarf cichlids.

Dwarf cichlids are also common in Africa. In West Africa, the Cherry Belly Cichlid and related species are probably the best known.

Character

Despite their small size, these cichlids have the feisty character of their larger relatives. They defend their territory, eggs, and young just as fiercely as their larger relatives. They may be dwarf cichlids in length, but they certainly hold their own in terms of character!