can you put cichlids from different areas in the same tank??

Answer 1

The simple answer is no.

Cichlids are an immensely diverse group of fish from all over the globe, and can have entirely different behaviors, needs and tolerances. Fish from different biotopes will essentially 'speak' different languages when it comes to behavior, and the ensuing misunderstanding leads to aggression and problems. Things to consider:

Are they from alkaline or acid waters, and can this effect the long term health of the fish?

Are they herbivorous, omnivorous, or carnivorous, and can you manage the diet if you mix them?

Are they the type of cichlid that pairs up and takes over a large territory, or are they the type that can live in numbers with other fish? Do they have breeding habits that will conflict?

How different is their aggression levels? Strength? Tolerance of tank mates? Tolerance of their own kind?

If you really want the most out of cichlids they'll be kept not necessarily with fish from the same geographical location, but at least from the same type of biotope. Species should be researched on an individual basis, as even if they are from the same area they still might not get along in a tank. Plus with a great many species you'll see their best natural behavior by keeping them in a species tank as a breeding pair/group.

http://www.cichlid-forum.com is a great place for fish profiles, cichlid articles, and other cichlid owners. I highly recommend going into it carefully and properly for the full experience.

Answer 2

Possibly, it depends. For example, you could not put an Angelfish (South American cichlid) with a yellow lab (Malawi cichlid).
However, you may be able to put a malawi cichlid with a larger tanganyikan cichlid.

So, it really depends on the two fish. Research each one individually and see how it goes. Above all observe the behaviour of both fish when you put them together.

But, it is always preferable to keep fish tanks region-specific, because water parameters do differ, as well as fish aggressivity.

Answer 3

It depends on the cichlids size, temperament, tank conditions (size of the tank, number of hiding places, water conditions, etc.) Check out this site for a chart on cichlid compatibility: http://freshaquarium.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ/Ya&sdn=freshaquarium&cdn=homegarden&tm=7&gps=108_208_575_178&f=21&tt=14&bt=1&bts=1&zu=http%3A//www.cichlidrecipe.com/cichlidchart/noflashchart.htm

Answer 4

not a good idea unless there are plenty of hiding places and they require the same water conditions. Otherwise they will kill each other.

Answer 5

to do this you need to see if they need the same things like heat light food stuff like that

Answer 6

As long as its big enough and they can have their own space