By Ron Coleman , 1999. Thorichthys pasionis males displaying for territory. Photo by Juan Miguel Artigas Azas . Even the tiniest of cichlids will fight. A closer look at cichlid fighting reveals complex behavior that is well worth watching and understanding.
Cichlids fight for a reason.
Fighting may be over space, over mates, or over food. The intensity of aggression and fighting is much easier to understand if we examine why fish fight rather than just ascribing fighting as a characteristic of a particular species. If we understand fighting, then we can attempt to control it, and our fish will benefit. Fighting is dangerous. The loser may forfeit scales, fins, or eyes.