Cichlids comprise well over a thousand species from tropical Africa and Central and South America. These fishes are ovate in shape, laterally compressed, and many are known for their atypical patterns and beautiful colors—from bright yellows and metallic greens to electric blues. Though most are herbivores, several species are carnivorous. Some Cichlids even consume organic waste (detritivores). Besides Angels and Discus, other Central and South American Cichlids include Oscars, Severums, Jack Dempsey and Texas Cichlids, as well as Apistogramma species like Rams. African Cichlids refer to thousands of species that originate from a series of rift lakes in the southeastern part of the continent (Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Malawi). All Cichlids are renowned as highly prolific; with very few exceptions, they are among the easiest aquarium fishes to breed.