Do Lake Malawi Cichlids Like Water Changes?
Lake Malawi Cichlids, also known as Mbuna, are popular aquarium fish originating from Lake Malawi in East Africa. Described as being ‘hardy’ and ‘durable’, keeping Mbuna can be a rewarding experience for any aquarist. An important aspect of keeping these fish is performing regular water changes, which are necessary to maintain the ideal water parameters for their wellbeing. But the question remains, do these fish actually accept or even benefit from water changes?
For starters, water changes help to maintain ideal water parameters, including pH, temperature, hardness and alkalinity by replenishing essential elements and to prevent concentration of nitrate, ammonia and other waste compounds. Failing to keep the water fresh with frequent water changes can lead to high levels of fish toxins which can make the fish ill, stop eating or even die. This is why aquarists should monitor water parameters closely for optimal care of Mbuna.
When it comes to Mbuna, aquarists have noted a certain sensitivity to environmental changes. It has been observed that in order for the fish to become acclimated to a new tank, it needs gradual changes. It is suggested that water changes be done weekly or bi-weekly. Too large of a water change can actually be detrimental to the fish. In some cases, too much fresh tap water has been linked to behavioral issues, indigestion, and discoloration of fins. Experts recommend that a change of 5-20% of tank volume should be done every week or bi-weekly, using conditioned water. This frequency together with gradual changes helps to keep the Mbuna healthy, properly nourished and may even prevent illnesses.
Furthermore, water changes can introduce beneficial bacteria which help to keep the tank clean and keep the fish healthy. The bacteria help to break down waste compounds and can even act as food for some of the fish. The importance of beneficial bacteria is often overlooked and their presence should be encouraged when performing water changes. This can be done by using aged water, adding conditioned water, using water from an established tank or by nitrogen cycling.
Overall, water changes are an essential part of Mbuna keeping. They help to maintain ideal water parameters and should be done regularly. However, when performing water changes, aquarists should exercise caution and limit the water change rate to prevent sudden shifts in water parameters. When done correctly, water changes can be beneficial and even welcomed by the fish and will help to ensure that Mbuna remain healthy and happy.
How To Perform Water Changes?
Performing water changes is not complicated, but certain steps should be taken to ensure that no harm comes to the Mbuna during the process. First, aquarists should test water parameters such as ammonia, nitrate and nitrite levels to identify any possible changes. Then, depending on the size of the tank, aquarists should siphon out 10-20% of the tank volume to remove debris, uneaten food, fish waste and other debris that have accumulated in the tank. The amount of water should be replaced with conditioned tap water, or water from an established tank. The new water should be gradually added, to allow the fish to acclimate to the new parameters. Lastly, aquarium sticks or chemical tests should be used to re-check water parameters and make sure they are at optimal levels.
What To Consider Before Performing A Water Change
Before performing a water change, aquarists should consider the impact it can potentially have on the Mbuna. For example, the tank size should be taken into account. In general, small tanks should have smaller water changes compared to larger tanks. Therefore, when taking into account the size of the tank, a 5-20% water change should be done weekly or bi-weekly. Another factor to consider is the temperature of the tank. In case the temperature in the tank is significantly higher than the new water, the Mbuna can suffer from a drastic temperature change. This can be avoided by matching the water temperature with the tank before introducing it to the tank.
What Are The Benefits Of Doing Frequent Water Changes?
The advantages of performing frequent water changes are numerous. For a start, frequent water changes can help to maintain ideal water parameters, prevent wastage build-up and keep the fish healthy. By refreshing the water, aquarists also help to eliminate free floating proteins which can lead to bacterial blooms and by keeping the parameters in check, it also prevents illnesses or any possible health issues that can arise from elevated levels of ammonia, nitrite or nitrate. Furthermore, aquariums with fish thrive when water changes are done regularly as they provide fresh oxygen into the water which is beneficial for the Mbuna.
What To Be Aware Of When Performing Water Changes?
While water changes are essential when keeping any fish, there are certain aspects aquarists should be aware of and take into account. The first and foremost is the type of water being used. Tap water should be conditioned with a water conditioner before being added to the tank in order to neutralize any chlorine and heavy metals that may have been in the source water. Another thing to consider is that when adding new water to the tank, the parameters should be monitored carefully. Water changes should not be done if water parameters, such as ammonia, nitrite and pH, are out of their acceptable range as this can be dangerous for the Mbuna. Also, when performing water changes, it is important to not use too much water at once as this could lead to a drastic shift in the pH level or other tank parameters.
Conclusion
To summarise, water changes are integral to Mbuna keeping and aquarists should adhere to a regular water change schedule. When done properly, water changes can help to keep water parameters at optimal levels, allowing Mbuna to remain healthy, stronger and live longer. It is important for aquarists to exercise caution and to be aware of all implications of water changes to ensure that the Mbuna remain safe and happy.
