Fish Stories

[Elspode]

Originally Posted by staceyv

I've had my 20 gallon high tank for about 7 years now. Right now, I have psychotic african cichlids in it. I love them! They're very active and aware of their surroundings. I'm afraid to add cichlid salts to the water because I don't want to hurt my big pleco and he's still my favorite. Years ago, I was breeding african cichlids- it's the coolest thing on earth- The female has a huge mouth and she hatches the eggs in her mouth, then holds all the babies in her mouth until they won't fit anymore. Sometimes she would spit all the babies out, but if she sensed danger, she'd suck 'em all back in. VERY cool.

Cichlids in general are very interesting. They *are* very aware of their surroundings, and even of which family member feeds them. They are also hellishly hard on tank decor, which they rearrange to suit themselves on a constant basis.