Coca-Condos for Cichlids How to make Cichlid Shelters from Coconut Shells. Most cave-spawning Cichlids require an appropriate shelter to feel secure, and secure Cichlids are more likely to exhibit the natural behavior that engenders them to so many aquarium hobbyists. There are a wide variety of structures available to the aquarist that will fill this role. This article is about one of my favorites - coconut shell caves.
Coconuts come in a number of shapes and sizes.
The usual factors considered in selecting coconuts for consumption are not really relevant to the shopper searching for cave material. The only constraints are size, shape, and the quality of the exterior shell. Scratched, cracked, or stained shells should be avoided. Discoloration due to moisture is normal, as most markets frequently wash the exposed produce and coconuts are usually found in the produce section. The normal method of shaking the nut to check for juice is also not relevant.