All about cichlids (original) (raw)
Placidochromis electra © Patrick Tawil
Cichlid Room Companion
Your comprehensive resource for cichlid fish species, covering taxonomy, distribution, habitat, natural history, conservation, and aquarium care. Ideal for scientists, aquarists, and enthusiasts seeking detailed profiles and expert insights.
news 
Mitochondrial Genomes Clarify Phylogeny and Taxonomic Confusion in Geophagus
A recent study published in Molecular Genetics and Genomics by Xiao-Die Chen, Cheng-He Sun, Wei Hu, and Chang-Hu Lu provides new insights into the evolutionary relationships of Neotropical cichlid fishes in the genus Geophagus. Rather than describing a new species, the research focuses on... continue reading
Featured editorial 
Diplotaxodon: Masters of the Malawian Twilight
This editorial explores the genus Diplotaxodon, a group of deep-water cichlids from Lake Malawi adapted to life in low-light offshore environments. It highlights their distinctive morphology, ecological roles, and behavioral strategies, emphasizing how these silvery predators differ from more familiar shallow-water cichlids. The article also addresses the challenges of studying and classifying these fishes due to their inaccessible habitat and subtle external differences. By examining their evolutionary adaptations and ecological significance, it underscores the importance of integrating modern research approaches to better understand and conserve this largely hidden but essential component of the lake’s biodiversity.
Published genera profiles
_Corematodus Boulenger, 1897 — by Patrick Tawil
A little-known genus comprising two specialized scale-eating species whose closest relatives remain uncertain.
Published species profiles
Talamancaheros sieboldii (Kner, 1863) — by Juan Miguel Artigas Azas
Talamancaheros sieboldii is a powerful scraper of fast rivers, grazing algae from rocks and forming devoted families.
Neolamprologus, the split — by Juan Miguel Artigas Azas
This editorial examines the evolving taxonomy of the lamprologine cichlids, focusing on the implications of recent morphological and genomic studies for the genus Neolamprologus. It highlights how traditional classifications, rooted in external morphology, have been challenged by phylogenetic evidence that reveals a complex, non-monophyletic assemblage. While acknowledging proposals to reorganize the group—particularly the separation of osteolamprologine lineages and the restriction of _Neolamprologus_—the editorial emphasizes the importance of taxonomic stability. It advocates a cautious, transitional approach in which species are provisionally retained within Neolamprologus while reflecting emerging evolutionary relationships, pending a more definitive and broadly accepted systematic revision.
What happens to Hemichromis? — by Juan Miguel Artigas Azas
This editorial reviews and clarifies the complex taxonomic history of Hemichromis angolensis Steindachner, 1865, focusing on its misidentification within the five-spotted Hemichromis group and the subsequent correction provided by recent research. It summarizes the shortcomings of the 2022 neotype designation by Lamboj & Koblmüller, whose specimen proved inconsistent with Steindachner’s original description and genetically unrelated to true Cuanza River populations. Integrating the findings of Bragança & Skelton (2025), the editorial explains the selection of a new neotype from the Lucala River above Calandula Falls and the resulting transfer of the species to Serranochromis. The piece also highlights the deep genetic structure within the H. elongatus complex and the likelihood of additional undescribed species. Overall, the editorial offers a clear summary of the taxonomic resolution of Serranochromis angolensis and its implications for the broader systematics of African cichlids.
Paul V. Loiselle — by Juan Miguel Artigas Azas
This article is a tribute to Paul V. Loiselle, reflecting on his profound influence as an author, conservationist, and mentor in the aquarium community. It recounts the author’s personal experiences with Paul’s writings and memorable interactions with him. The text highlights Paul’s dedication to cichlid conservation, his foundational role in the American Cichlid Association, and his influential articles and books, including his renowned work, The Cichlid Aquarium. Paul’s humility, passion for fish, and commitment to sharing knowledge continue to inspire aquarists and conservationists dedicated to the preservation of fish species.