Cichlids
This family is unique to its diversity, for size, shape, swimming levels and even behaviour. Body shapes range from the disc-like Discus, to the long and pointy Checkerboard. These fish can be very colourful, although many fish in this family get to a very big proportion. One of the most frustrating things about cichlids - although you can get them to breed, they can be very, very territorial when spawning.

Angelfish have black bars on a silver-coloured body. However many new varieties have been developed. They are very graceful, slow moving, but are quite aggresive at breeding times.

Of course, very similar to the Scalare. It can be more of a difficult fish to keep, as it demands correct good water conditions (acid, clean). They are mostly wild caught, and are quite rare. Would be territorial if breeding.

The Keyhole is reported to be one of the most peaceful of cichlids, and does'nt burrow often and shouldn't damage plants. They form a nuclear family and can care for the fry for up to 6 months.

These are a very popular fish, although too many new aquarists buy them, and then find out that they will eventually grow too large in their aquariums. Best to keep them in very large tanks (roughly 100 gallons). They are carnivores, so any smaller fish may become victim to their diet. They are open breeders, and the brood should be cared for well.

A very attractive Cichlid, and a very popular fish, as it only grows up to 3-4". It will form pairs, and then grow into a close-knit family, which would then defend its territory/eggs.

Very attractive fish, classic white and black striped colour on the body. They are territorial, but given enough space they can tolerate others, and shouldn't harm plants. You can distinquish females/males, as males can have a pronounced bump on the forehead.

A very attractive fish, bright yellow body colour, Dorsal fin has a black streak giving it a good look. This is a peaceful fish, and is not territorial. They live in pairs, and form a matriach family.

This is a colourful fish, with blue spots across its body. It also has orange, yellow and purple hues. They are sensitive to change in the tanks water conditions.

The fish is brown, covered in checkerboard pattern of deep blue and orange. The fins are red and blue. This fish tends to lurk around the bottom of the aquarium, and likes hiding places.

The Discus is a very attractive fish, but it is very delicate so is not recommend for the beginner. It needs the water temperature to be 28C.

The Firemouth Cichlid has an red colour on its underbelly, which can be quite intense. The fish can be very territorial during spawning, otherwise they will be peaceful to other tank mates. They are great parents, and make a nuclear family.

True to its name, it is has a pure lemon colour all over its body. It is normally a peaceful fish, although it can be quite aggresive if there are too many fish in the tank. They are cave breeders, and the male will defend the territory during spawning.