Monster Aquarium in Madurai – Lake Malawi Cichlids Habitat by Filial Aquatics

Creating a Monster Aquarium for Lake Malawi Cichlids

At Filial Aquatics, we take pride in designing aquariums that go beyond imagination. Recently, we completed a monster aquarium project that combined sheer scale, cutting-edge filtration, and a natural Lake Malawi cichlid biotope. This custom-built installation is not just an aquarium—it’s a living piece of art designed to house a thriving ecosystem of more than 100 exotic cichlids.





Tank Specifications

The aquarium measures an impressive 15 x 2 x 2.5 ft, built in an L-shaped design to perfectly fit the client’s space. Constructed with 19mm toughened glass, the front panels are extra clear to ensure maximum viewing clarity. For durability and precision, we used Wacker 121 aquarium-grade silicon with our signature Zero silicon pasting technique, making the build both seamless and long-lasting.


        









Aquascape Design

To replicate the rocky shores of Lake Malawi, we incorporated over 400 kgs of hole rocks. These carefully arranged stones create more than 100 caves and hiding spots, providing a natural and secure habitat for the cichlids. The substrate features 250 kgs of Neil sand, chosen for its natural look and smooth texture, making it safe for the fish while enhancing the authentic feel of the biotope.

With these design elements, the aquarium not only captures the essence of Lake Malawi but also provides the right environment for cichlids to display their vibrant colors and natural behaviors.

Lighting and Filtration

Lighting plays a vital role in showcasing both the aquascape and the fish. We installed five WRGB pendant LEDs, ensuring balanced illumination that enhances the rich hues of the cichlids while promoting a dynamic viewing experience.

Filtration is the backbone of any monster aquarium, especially one hosting such a large fish population. This system is powered by a 5-foot sump filter capable of rotating 12,000 L/H of water. The sump ensures mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration, maintaining crystal-clear water and stable parameters essential for the health of Malawi cichlids.



Livestock

The aquarium is now home to 100 Lake Malawi cichlids, each thriving in the carefully designed environment. With abundant caves, rock structures, and open swimming spaces, these fish can establish territories, exhibit natural behavior, and coexist in harmony. The vibrant blues, yellows, and reds of the cichlids transform the aquarium into a living masterpiece.



Why Choose Filial Aquatics

Projects like this highlight our expertise in custom monster aquariums, biotope-based designs, and advanced filtration systems. Whether you’re a hobbyist dreaming of a unique setup or a collector looking for professional execution, Filial Aquatics delivers aquariums that combine aesthetics, engineering, and biology.

For aquarium products and equipment, visit our eCommerce store at www.filialaquatics.in. To explore more of our completed projects and detailed blogs, check out www.filialaquatics.com.