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Adding new cichlids to planted aquarium
1/25/19 Best cichlid for 50 gallon community tank
2/7/18
Sharing a tank 11/9/15 2 male Pink Convicts in a 90 gal; comp.
7/24/13 purple rose queen VS. jelly bean cichlid....
7/15/12 Breeding cichlids for
profit 11/8/11 72 gallon stocking, cichlid
poss. 3/22/11 What Type? Cichlid sp. sel. for breeding,
selling 3/10/11 CHANGE OF SCENERY,
neo-trop. Cichlid stkg./sel., maybe
Tanganyikans 2/17/11 Tank swap. Getting into Cichlids --
12/08/10 Firemouth Compatibility Terrible man buys Jack Dempsey for
community tank 36 gallon tank and its
residence Various Questions (Community tanks; cichlid
selection) 12/01/08 Hello all, Hope things are going well for
you there. I have several questions, please. I start reading and
hearing too much conflicting information about some freshwater aquarium
fish (not from you there) and it starts taking all of the fun out of
trying to pick what tank inhabitants I want. I hope you will help me. I
am still in the process of setting up a 75 gallon fw aquarium and
wanted to make sure that all levels of the water were utilized and also
make sure that I had slow and fast swimmers. For the faster swimming
fish I had thought about rainbow fish. I know they school and stay
around the mid level I think. <Excellent fish; they don't like
real soft water, but beyond that most species are hardy, peaceful and
long-lived.> My choice for the top level was going to be several
pairs of pearl gouramis since I love their color and I know they occupy
the top region of the tank. I also heard that the pearl especially was
peaceful. Now I have read in several different places that gouramis can
be aggressive as they get older, even the pearl. So now I am not sure
if I should forget them or not. <Easily worth the risk in a 75
gallon tank. Often reports of aggression with gouramis comes from two
males in a 20 gallon or smaller tank. In your tank there's really
no risk of trouble.> I had also thought of using angel fish and
Severums in place of the rainbows, but then I read that I should get at
least 6 smaller angels at the same time and let them grow up together
because getting 2-4 would cause them to fight. I also read never to buy
a large angel to start with because as a fish gets older it does not
acclimate well to a new surrounding. <A school of Angelfish should
be fine; yes, pairs become territorial when spawning but in large tanks
groups of six or more usually balance out okay. In groups less than six
bullying can occur. Certainly worth the risk.> And as far as the
Severums I read that they got extremely large. <They do get big, and
they're also plant-eaters. Another thing you might consider are
Discus (surprisingly good community tank fish IF you choose tankmates
carefully. Festivum cichlids are nice too, but you might also check out
a pair of Hypselecara temporalis ("Emerald Chocolate
Cichlid"). Kept these before and they're just amazing fish,
with unique colours that constantly change from green to purple to
chocolate brown. Smaller options including Blue Acara and Flag Acara.
African Jewel Cichlids can be an option, though you need to choose
tankmates carefully; I'm fond of Hemichromis lifalili.> Now I am
confused and about ready to just give up and do a species tank so I
don't have to worry about any of this stuff. If you could help me
with correct information and maybe some suggestions I would greatly
appreciate it. And as always, thanks for all you do. James Hall
<Hope this helps, Neale.> Was re: Gouramis (Selection; behaviour),
now "Cichlid" sel./comp. 10/16/08 Re: Cichlid selection; was re: Gouramis
(Selection; behaviour) 10/16/08 Cichlid recommendations. For a 20 gal. 5/29/08 I am recently returning into the love of fish, they're more interesting than snakes, and have been wondering about stocking a tank with Cichlids. I am really interested in the Jurupari, and possibly some of the dwarf cichlids. I plan to buy a 20 gallon tank (not much else would fit in my room) and want to know what would be a good tank mix for it? <A twenty is too small for Juraparoids/Eartheaters...> I understand that with Jurupari it is recommend to keep the water extremely clean, to prevent hole-in-the-head, and that while they are young the gravel should be thin (Sandy or such...). I would just love to know if a 20 gal is large enough for one of these beautiful fish, or possibly two. If not, which Cichlids would you recommend? <Really, S. American Dwarfs...> I understand that angel-fish are very sweet (though territorial) fish, one of my friends owns a pair. Though, I am really interested in a fish like the earth eaters... It just sounds so fun. I also want something that I can watch and not stress out, my current fancy guppies (doing well mind you) stress me from time to time... They like to freak out all over the tank, interacting with their reflections. Thanks for the wonderful resource! Heather. <Welcome... do avail yourself of the many resources on the Net, library books re Apistogramma, Nannacara... Bob Fenner>
Q re new 63 gallon stocking cichlids / community 04/21/08 Hi there, Fantastic site, a great resource. Many thanks for all your work. <Most welcome.> I am planning to get a new tank in a couple of months (Juwel Rio 240 - 63 Us Gallons), had 1st tank for 18 months- now hooked. Unlikely I can get a bigger tank than this (boo) Likely add a canister filter too. Fishless cycle of course. <Juwel tanks are lovely and well constructed. The filters aren't great for big, messy fish because they lack mechanical filtration capacity, but otherwise provide good water quality. So a good choice.> I wonder if you can help on some stocking questions? I have searched WWW and many sites but not found my exact situation. <Ok.> I was originally planning to get an Oscar but have since changed my mind as I want a community tank but I do still want to keep cichlids, if possible, as their behaviour seems very interesting, especially breeding. <Indeed; Oscars are a bit big for this sized aquarium to be honest, and even a pair of medium sized cichlids, such as Jewel Cichlids, could monopolise the tank once they start breeding.> This led me to look at dwarf cichlids but compatibility with other fish on my 'want' list (particularly water param.s, then aggression then bio load) has left me a bit confused. <Dwarfs are an excellent choice: but your problem with Dwarf cichlids are these: [a] They tend to be very sensitive to water quality issues, so can't be heavily stocked despite their size; and [b] many Dwarfs have very picky water chemistry requirements, if not for maintenance, then certainly for breeding. Krib-type things (Pelvicachromis spp.) for example will live in practically anything, even brackish water, but unless the pH is neutral, you get fry of all one sex.> I also most likely want to have it as a medium planted tank so that rules out big cichlids. <True, though Angelfish and Discus are good with plants.> I may ditch the plant idea for this tank if it turns out to be unsuitable but I like the look of all that greenery. <As do the cichlids, which tend to prefer shady environments over open water.> Water param.s: Hard London water, PH 7.2. Temp to set is part of the compatibility question. <Indeed. Many cichlids need very warm (e.g., Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) or slightly cool (e.g., some Aequidens spp.) conditions relative to the usual 25 C/77 F.> Other fish I would like to have in this new tank: Plec. Ideally I would like a Royal Panaque but might get too big for 240ltr with other fish? <Royal Plecs grow slowly. My 15 year old specimen lives in a 180 litre tank and is quite happy. The main problem is these fish are completely incompatible with plants (as far as I can tell, and I've struggled!). They don't eat most plants (though they do eat Anubias!) but simply are so clumsy and spiky, they uproot everything. They produce phenomenal amounts of waste too, and that makes most tanks look murky. Best kept in a rocky aquarium with strong filtration and a bit of bogwood for them to eat (an essential requisite). All this said, they are SUPERB catfish, and honestly the one fish I've always kept: even when I emigrated to the US for a few years, I had someone baby sit my Panaque for when I got back. These cats are simply lovely subjects for the fish connoisseur.> If so I will likely move my breeding pair of Ancistrus sp (Bristlenose Plecs) to the new tank. <Ancistrus are excellent with most small cichlids. So are most medium sized Loricariidae; the main thing is to avoid anything so easily damaged (like Farlowella) or hard to keep (like Otocinclus) that they become more trouble in this tank than they're worth.> Cory catfish, not sure what type. I was planning around 6 bronze cories but read that dwarf cichlids need warmer water and only 'Corydoras myersi' would be suitable at higher temps. I can't find much info on these and haven't seen them in the four LFS I go to. <As a rule, Corydoras do not like excessively warm water. They muddle through, but you never see them at their best. My Peppered Corydoras never looked so happy as when they were in the garden pond over summer (a UK summer at that!). Corydoras sterbai is the "old favourite" for warm water tanks and seems to prosper though. It is the standard issue Corydoras for things like Discus tanks. The question is whether you should mix them with dwarf cichlids at all: some, like Loiselle, suggest not, because even Apistogramma can attack these little catfish. Certainly my Corydoras seem completely incapable of learning about territories, meaning that they can get harassed by territory-holding cichlids. By contrast, things like Loricariidae and Synodontis tend to be altogether more robust.> I also plan to have 5-6 clown loaches as these are one of my favourite fish but have concerns about eventual size and again compatibility with cichlids. <Clowns get enormous when well kept, and do need very specific conditions to thrive. I'd tend to eschew them if at all possible, or else design the tank around them and stock it with fast-water species at midwater levels, like big characins and barbs. But that said, they generally work very well with cichlids.> A school of dither fish for the upper levels is also planned for movement and security feeling for other fish. I was thinking Zebra Danios, around 12 of them. Happy to consider other smallish schooling dither fish. <Danios, like Corydoras, are fish of cooler, fast-water streams, which are not the same as those preferred by most cichlids. So I'd tend to choose things like unusual livebearers and/or halfbeaks (for hardwater cichlids) or Rasboras/tetras (for soft water cichlids). Rainbowfish are also good, and generally adapt to pretty much anything. Melanotaenia boesemanni for example gives you hardiness, great colours, a decent size, and longevity.> And finally some Otos if possible. <Honestly, avoid these. The vast majority die within months. They need a constant supply of green algae. Not much else seems to work for them.> Some of the Cichlids I have been considering are Blue ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi), <Unless you set the tank up for them, and have access to top-quality (as opposed to farmed) fish, then skip these.> Bolivian Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus), <An excellent fish: hardy, adaptable, happy at regular temperatures.> Dwarf cichlid (Apisto Agassizi) -or Cockatoo cichlid Apistogramma cacatuoides. <Another superb species, and quite possibly the most reliable and adaptable Apistogramma on the market. A harem of these fish is quite a spectacle.> I was thinking about 6 of any one particular type. I have read mixed reports on how hardy Blue (German?) rams are and what hardness of water other dwarfs like. <Commercial Rams are diabolical, and have been for years. Decent stock of either of the other species should work well. As with any Dwarf cichlids, investing in a fair size group so that you can tolerate a little wastage isn't a bad idea, but do try and buy from two (or more) sellers so that you mix up the gene pool a bit.> Alternatively I was considering slightly larger cichlids, a M/F pair but not sure on compatibility with my other choices (e.g. breeding convicts killing everything in sight!). <Do consider the smaller Malawians and Tanganyikans. For example, dwarf Shell Dwellers (such as Neolamprologus brevis and Lamprologus ocellatus are wonderful, and thrive in hard, basic water of the sort "enjoyed" by many English aquarists. This makes water changes easy, so managing nitrate becomes simple. Better yet, these fish stay at the bottom of the tank, where the rocks and shells are. Some form pairs, others live in harems, so you options there in what behaviours you want to observe. So you can populate the upper level with rare livebearers such as Limia nigrofasciata. You get *two* interesting breeding/behaviour projects for the price of one! Add any oddball hardwater-tolerant catfish (like Ancistrus for example) and cichlids if you want, by building up a rocky area along one side of the tank (for the one-off Tanganyikans say) and then have the open sandy area with the shells somewhere else. Maybe plant along the back with Vallisneria, which is native to Tanganyika and positively thrives in hard, basic water. Provided none of the cichlids were predatory, you could also keep shrimps and interesting snails (like Nerites or the *predatory* whelk Clea helena) to turn the thing into a "freshwater reef tank"!> So in summary I would like some Cichlids (a pair or preferably around 6 dwarfs), dither fish, bottom dwellers (Plecs are a must -- love them) and possibly Clown Loaches. Hope you can help? <Hope I have!> BTW Neale, if you read this I love your style and wit, especially when the recipient of a barb or two goes a bit nuts, jeez some people. All the best to Bob et al at WWW. Many thanks in advance William <Thanks for the kind words, and hope this helps, Neale.> Cichlids, sel., using WWM 2/22/08 Hello, I've emailed you guys before about advice on tanks, set-ups and many other things. I now have the desire to set up a very colorful tank (30-55 gal.) that will be inhabited by cichlids. I have a particular interest in the yellow lab because of its bright color as well as the demasoni cichlid but I cannot find any other that catch my eye such as these two. I would also like to add some inverts if possible and a Pleco as well. Could you please send me something in return about this topic and what fish to add to this community as well as any advice you may have that is helpful. Thanks. <... Please make use of the search tool, indices... Per: http://wetwebmedia.com/WWMAdminSubWebIndex/question_page.htm Bob Fenner> Rams substitute, sm. cichlid sel. 2/16/08 Hello, Neale <Mark,> I have a 20 gallon hexagon freshwater planted tank. Currently It has 6 harlequin Rasboras and 6 cardinal tetras. <A nice combination of fish, but consider adding some more of each for a real "punch" of colour.> I used to have blue rams, but I could keep them alive just for a few (3-4) months. I gave up. <No surprise. The quality of commercial stock is low.> I'd like to keep a pair of Bolivian rams or kribs instead. Which one you recommend? <Both are nice. Bolivian Rams are perhaps less colourful than Kribs, but they are also a bit less likely to cause mayhem if they decide to breed. On the other hand, breeding Kribs is a great way to experience dwarf cichlids. Really, both are lovely, so I'd tend to go with what you can get and/or what looks good at the moment. Good quality Kribs are incredibly eye-catching, but a lot of mass produced fish don't have the full set of colours. One might argue that two female Kribs would be a great way forward, since the females are smaller and perhaps more brightly coloured. Do also check out the other Pelvicachromis species beyond the Krib; Pelvicachromis taeniatus and Pelvicachromis subocellatus are two personal favourites.> They are bigger then blue rams. Would they fit to this tank? <Yes.> What temperature should I have? (Currently it is 84 F) <I'd tone that down a little, closer to 77-79F.> Would they harm my other fish? <Dwarf Cichlids are not 100% reliable. They are, after all, cichlids. Just a bit smaller than otherwise. But if they want to be mean, they can be. That said, both Kribs and Bolivian Rams are considered good choices for the community tank, especially if they have adequate numbers of caves so they don't feel insecure. Half a coconut shell, covered with Java Moss, is a perfect nest.> Maybe it is better to get honey Gouramis? May be something else? <There are certainly other options. Badis badis, if you can find it, is one of the loveliest fish. It's called the "Chameleon Perch" and lives up to its name. A seasonal fish, so you don't see it all year round. Quite fussy at dinner time, too. Another excellent little fish if you want a "character" is the Florida Flagfish. Although a killifish, it behaves more like a dwarf cichlid. Tend to look uninspiring in aquarium shops, but when settled down have amazing red and blue colours. Also eats algae! Flag Acara (Laetacara curviceps) is another peaceful cichlid with lovely colours. One last choice, if you're feeling ambitious, is the dwarf climbing perch Microctenopoma ansorgei; in breeding condition, the males have amazing colours.> Thank you for your help, Mark <Cheers, Neale.> Freshwater Newbie!
1/12/08 Hello All, <Hello Tom!> Please be patient with me as
I am just getting into the relaxing (at times) world of freshwater
tanks. I went and bought new 60Gal with a cascade 1000 filter. The tank
looks beautiful with some fake plants, speckled gravel and lots of
hiding places (pottery and rocks). I'm ready for fish! Unlike most,
I am taking my time in the selection because I want to make sure no
fish are sacrificed and my family can enjoy this experience. Here is
what I have narrowed my fish selection down to: <Ok...> First
Group: (1) Chocolate Cichlid (1) Jurupari (1) Green Severum <Fine in
terms of behaviour, but these are BIG fish, and a 60 US gallon tank
will feel very crowded. While they might live in this space, they could
just as easily end up fighting or suffering from problems such as
hole-in-the-head thanks to high nitrate levels. Satanoperca jurupari
gets to about 18 cm, Hypselecara temporalis to about 20 cm, and Heros
severus about the same. A 60 US gallon tank is really better suited to
cichlids in the 10-15 cm size scale.> Second Group: (1) Iridescent
or albino shark (catfish) (1) Clown Loach (1) Upside down catfish
<Pangasius hypophthalmus reaches a maximum length of 130 cm, which
is obviously way too big for your tank. Clown loaches are sociable and
easily reach 20 cm if adequately cared for, and nearer 30 cm is well
cared for. In other words, you really need a tank suitable for 5-6
Clowns, which is more than 60 US gallons will accommodate. So again,
not a great choice. Yes, I know people keep single Clown loaches -- but
trust me, those loaches are UNHAPPY, and SHY, and NERVOUS. If you want
to enjoy these fish, and let these fish enjoy their lives, you need a
group of them. Synodontis nigriventris is an ideal size for your
aquarium. Maximum size is about 8 cm, and they are sociable too, and in
schools become great fun. I have some in the tank next to me, and they
scoot about chasing one another and generally putting on a good show. A
superb aquarium fish.> Third Group: (1) Red Oscar (1) Tiger Oscar
(2) Pleco <A mated pair of Oscars will be happy enough in a tank
this size... but two random Oscars dumped in a tank this small (or
really any size short of a public aquarium) can end up fighting once
they mature. Oscars are, of course, impossible to sex as juveniles and
practically impossible to sex even as adults. Do remember these
varieties are all the same species. As for the Plec, yes, most Plecs
will do fine in a 60 gallon system.> I decided to get the fish in
three groups because the first and second group need a chance to grow
and make themselves at home in the new tank. I wanted the first group
to start growing at least a little bit before I put the baby Oscars in
the tank. Obviously, the tank would not need the Plecos until later on
anyway. <You don't "need" a Plec. It will do nothing
to stop algae (quite the reverse in fact) and cichlids are plenty good
enough to clean up leftover food by themselves. By all means add a Plec
if you want one, but it has nothing to do with "need".> So
with all this being said, here are my two questions: 1) Is this tank
going to be overcrowded with 8 fish and 2 Plecos? <WHOA!... you mean
you want ALL THESE fish in the same aquarium?!?! NOT A CHANCE. I
thought these were three possible options, which is bad enough. All of
them in one tank would be a disaster.> I know Plecos are fish too,
(I don't want to upset anyone or any fish) but they don't need
a huge amount of space from what I was told. <Whoever told you this
is talking rubbish. Plecs produce a massive amount of waste and are
very territorial in their own right.> Should be about 40 - 50 inches
in a 60Gal <Length of fish per gallon only works for small things:
Danios, Neons, Guppies, etc. Big fish are entirely different. For a
start, oxygen/filtration requirements are related to mass (volume) not
length. Volume goes up as a cube of length. So an Oscar may only be 12
times the length of a Neon, but it is 12 x 12 x 12 = 1728 times the
volume! It's a little more complex than this because bigger animals
have slower metabolic rates than smaller animals, but even allowing for
that an Oscar is producing many times more ammonia than, say, 12 Neon
tetras, and using many times more oxygen. You also have to allow for
bigger fish having territorial demands. A sexually mature Oscar will
hold a territory 1-2 m in radius. That's obviously far larger than
your aquarium. So should an Oscar decide to become pushy, the other
fish will be in DEEP TROUBLE.> 2) More importantly, have I not
picked the correct tankmates? <Sorry, nope. Back to the drawing
board. Be a little less ambitious, and look at fish around the 10-15 cm
mark. You will be able to safely stock a nicer variety, and those fish
will be much happier and more likely to exhibit interesting
behaviours.> Thanks, Tom <Cheers, Neale.> Re: Filtration, water and stock advice - 05/01/07 Great, many thanks Neale. With regard to your fish recommendations - I like cichlids but what would you recommend that doesn't get too big, aggressive and plant 'uprooty'? I think a pair of Kribensis would look great though. <The list here is huge. Anything from the genus Pelvicachromis, including the common Krib, will do fine. Keyhole cichlids and blue Acara are also viable, though both do best in water that isn't too hard/alkaline. They aren't too large either. Some people have success keeping things like Neolamprologus brichardi in hard water community tanks, but Tanganyikans tend to be a little aggressive for community tanks. But in a 55 gallon tank, I'd take the chance. Otherwise, simply read and chat with other cichlid keepers. There are lots of smallish, non-disruptive species out there.> Also rainbow fish. I'm sure I've seen several fish by that name - could you give me the Latin please and I'll look it up. <Many many species. Choose from what's available. Two of nicest species are Melanotaenia boesemanni and Glossolepis incisus, both easy to find. Pretty much all the rainbowfish are safe, hard water tolerant, and easy to keep.> Cheers, Charlie <Cheers, Neale> All charged up about Cichlids... which/where to go? 4/17/04 Hello!! my name is Nikki I have a new 55 gallon that I have just begun cycling and a 10 gallon with two filters one that turns 100gph and one that turns 50 or so gph I was wondering the biggest most aggressive fish (cichlid/s) I could put in this setup...... I like plants rocks driftwood etc. but they are not necessary (I know most aggressive fish will tear up the tank). I am looking more for a fish with lots of character and not just looks I have bought many tropical fish books and researched a lot on the web but a lot of the information contradicts what I know to be true (a novice aquarist) and what I have read so I turn to you for RELIABLE advice. PLEASE HELP!!! also is it okay to just have one fish in the tank or does it need tank mates?! <Quite a few Cichlids are best kept one to a tank, if the volume is small... e.g. the species called Red Devils...> many thanks for any help you can give me! In addition the 55 gal has two angelfish about 3 1/2 in each, an algae eater I think it is a loach of some sort not to sure, and an African dwarf frog, I was wondering what cichlids would be compatible and fit okay in this set-up as well. <Mmm, other S. Americans... see fishbase.org... search by country, river (Amazon) then by family...> I love the Sciaenochromis ahli "electric blue Haplochromis" I don't think it will be compatible in this case <You are correct here> but I love them they are beautiful...any suggestions? <Yes... books... perhaps the library... for the short works of Paul Loiselle on the family> I also like Agassiz's dwarf cichlid, <A good choice here... if your 55 has soft, acidic, warm water...> Salvins cichlid, dickfeld's julie, Marlieri julie, ornatus, fuelleborni cichlid, and the fairy cichlid. Would any of these work and get along with the other inhabitants of the tank? <Mmm, not really... Best to not mix African Cichlids with non-Africans... and even to sort through the Africans (and non-) for bodies of water, habitat, compatibility issues...> Thanks again!! You guys are awesome <Read my young friend... redirect your enthusiasm, drive... focus that energy into quiet reflection on what you can find in books (not the Net) re this expansive family of fishes, their captive husbandry... Do consider joining, participating in the various Cichlid clubs... the American Cichlid Association in particular. Please do write back with more specific questions... am hopeful that our local cichlidophile, Chuck Rambo will be about, can/will offer you more/better direction. Bob Fenner> Small Cichlid species sel., LR intro. into an est. reef - 03/02/07 Hi <Hello> Two separate questions for you guys 1. I have a spare 15gal tank I don't know what to do with!! I would love to keep some cyclids, <A new spelling... to me! Biker types?> but I am aware that they are territorial, aggressive, and I am not sure that a 15 g would be big enough. <Mmm, for some dwarf, small species this could work> I don't want loads, nor do I want big ones, but is it possible to keep a few, small, pretty, easy to breed, Lake Malawi cyclids in a small tank? <... maybe some of the "shell dwelling species"...> 2. secondly, a marine question. I have had a 35 g marine reef for two years now, with a few fish, and some undemanding soft corals, as I do not have, nor want, intense lighting. I have run on an external canister filter for 2 years, but I have a colleague who is dismantling his reef, and he has approx 12 kg of cured live rock. His water parametres are great, and I would like to move to a live rock based system with the skimmer and UV. I feel that as his rock is so well cured, I wouldn't have a problem with spiking ammonia or nitrite, but would i need to keep the external filter running for a while, and is 12kg enough for my tank? <Yes, I would> I think your site is absolutely brilliant, and i refer to it constantly. Many thanks Lesley <Thank you. Bob Fenner> Needing Upgrade advice. Acrylic/Glass, and cichlid sel. 3/1/07 I currently have a 29 gallon and a 10 gallon fresh water setup. I was thinking about shutting down the 10 gallon and replacing it with a larger tank 40 to 50 gallons. What in your opinion are the pros and cons of an acrylic versus glass tank? <Mmm, acrylic hold their value longer... are not nearly as likely to break or leak... but do scratch easier than glass... though are easier to remove scratches from... Acrylic are better thermal insulators... look nicer IMO> I was going to stay with fresh water and look into getting some cichlids. Any advice about these as far as hardiness would be helpful also. Thanks, Chuck <The third largest family of fishes... some very tough indeed... others very much not so... Perhaps you want to investigate a given biotope... a part of an area of the world... micro-habitat... Or center on a key species or two... See the Net, books re... or write us back with more specific questions... Bob Fenner> Cichlid Tank Recommendations 2/28/07 Hi-I just discovered your site and have found it to be very helpful! I have a fully cycled 29 gallon tank and would like to put some cichlids in there. I know I am at the min. end of tank size and want to be sure I don't end up with a battle ring instead of a fish tank! I have some angels currently but could re home them in another tank. I have been doing research on cichlids that have been listed some where or another as OK for a 29 gallon. Please tell me what you think how many of which I could add to the tank and feel free to offer sugg ( why I'm e-mailing right :-)). South American: I like Agassiz's dwarf, cockatoos, keyholes and panda dwarfs. < All very acceptable in a community tank set up. they prefer very soft acidic water with lots of plants and places to hide.> Central American: Fire mouth too bit)? And rainbows. < Central American cichlids like Firemouths get up to 6 inches for some males and are really too aggressive to be placed in a community tank set up. Rainbows are fine. Vey active and colorful.> Lake Tanganyika: Neolamprologus, Lamprologus, yellow labs, Julies, and Steatocranus (too aggressive?) <Tanganyikans like lamps and Julies would do OK in hard alkaline water. Stick with medium sized ones. Yellow labs come from Lake Malawi and would do best by themselves. The Buffalohead types from the Congo river would do OK but their reduced swim bladder limits them to the bottom of the tank.> Mbuna (probably some of my fave): red zebra, peacock, Pseudotropheus saulosi (my fave cichlid I have researched but will do with out if I should:-)) and Chalinochromis. < Zebras get big and are very aggressive. Peacocks are OK but the females are rather drab. The Ps saulosi are an excellent choice. They stay small are a very peaceful for Mbuna. The Chalinochromis come from Lake Tanganyika and can be treated the same as the lamps and Julies.> Also I like the more common cichlids such as rams worry about their sensitivity), flags and Kribs. < Treat like the dwarf cichlids in your earlier question.> I have read that I could do a Lamprologus mix tank or 2 calvus,3 brichardi, 2 lemon and 4 shell dwellers. Also 1 pair of Kribs , 1 pair of African butterfly cichlids plus tetras or barbs. 8-10 Pseudotropheus saulosi plus dithers or plus 4 yellow labs. <Go with the Krib tank. It is the best mix you have suggested.> The confusion I have is I read somewhere I can and then read I can't. frustrating! My pH is naturally 7.6 with a piece of drift wood so I worry about being able to lower it for some fish. Any tank combos would be helpful!! Also a little nervous about finding pairs and also getting them young and small enough to add together (my tank is stocked now so no problem adding that many at the same time) any suggestions on doing both?!?!Any help you can offer is greatly appreciated!! Thank you- Christie < Your suggested cichlid combinations are all over the place. I would recommend that you get a book by Ad Konings titled "Enjoying Cichlids". A great book that is written by experts all over the world. This will help you decided witch cichlids will go in your tank based on numerous factors.-Chuck> 55 gal tank, cichlid sel.
1/21/07 Hi! My name is Stacey. <<Hi.
Mine's Tom.>> I have recently purchased a 55 gal tank.
<<Congratulations.>> My question is how many fish per
gallon can you put into a tank? I do not want to over-populate. I will
be putting cichlids in the tank. Thank you for your help in advance.
<<Seems a reasonable question on the surface, Stacey, but in the
world of Cichlids, it's not that simple. The temperaments of the
members of this huge family of fish run from murderously aggressive to
peaceful and shy depending on the species. A large number of Cichlids
are extremely territorial particularly during breeding and even those
not well-noted for being 'territorial' may become so at this
time. Properly set up, a Cichlid tank will provide plenty of hiding
places for the fish, i.e. rocks, caves, etc., which can 'chew
up' a good deal of otherwise occupiable space. In short, the
question you want to ask is, 'What fish?', rather than,
'How many fish?' Cichlids, typically, have some of the most
interesting and outgoing personalities in the hobby and many aquarists
are very happy to house only one of the larger varieties in a tank such
as yours. Other folks would consider a single fish in a 55-gallon tank
as 'boring'. What I would strongly advise, beyond the research
that you'll need to do, is to make certain that you consider the
'adult' size of any fish that you add to this tank. Also, many,
if not most, Cichlids are happier in male/female pairs and some
LFS's are reluctant to sell their Cichlids singly. Unlike most
other freshwater fish, Cichlids make wonderful parents to their young,
protecting and nurturing them for upwards of months. What might start
out as a modest number of fish could turn into something very different
for you.>> Stacey <<Sorry if I've created more
questions for you than I've answered but suggesting what you
'should do' is a lot easier than telling you what you
'should have done'. Take your time, do your homework and all
will be fine. Best of luck to you. Tom>> One Male Cichlid Per Tank - 11/11/06 Thanks again Chuck. Is it true that if keeping all males, the alpha male will be the only one with color? < When more than one male is kept per tank there is always one that will become aggressive because he wants to mate and establish a territory. When other males come into his territory that either show the same dominant fight colors and challenge the dominant male or else these show a more submissive coloration that says "I'm not interested in fighting" . Unfortunately the less dominant coloration is usually pretty drab.-Chuck> Setting Up A Cichlid Tank 9/25/06 Hello, I have a few things that I would like to get your advice on. I was given a 55 gallon tank and had been planning on putting some goldfish, dojo loaches and zebra danios in it, but after keeping fish for a while these seem somewhat mundane. <I agree.> I was wondering if a 55 gallon would be too small for keeping some cichlids in. I know something like an Oscar would be too big, but what about Green Terrors < Too big.> , Firemouths <Ok> or Jack Dempseys? < Males get big.> I don't really want to breed any of these fish, because I wouldn't know what to do with the fry, but I know they are beautiful and have interesting personalities when compared to most other fish. How many of these fish would be okay in a 55 gallon tank? And what sort of tank mates would be compatible with these cichlids (keeping in mind not to overcrowd). Thank you for your help. Matt < As long as the fish are not paired up then you could have quite a few potential candidates. One Firemouth, convict, jewelfish, blue Acara, black Acara would go together just to get started. There are many convict and Firemouth like cichlids from Central America. Do a Google search on Archocentrus and Thorichthys to see some of these other species. Keep in mind that I think almost all of these fish will cross with each other so try and get all the same sex. You could probably keep six or seven of these in a 55 gallon with good filtration and regular water changes.-Chuck> Cichlids For A 10 Gallon Tank - 05/20/2006 Bob, thanks for your reply. The 10 g saltwater was a thought, but I won't set it up. Instead I will set up a 40 gallon breeder for freshwater. (If I set up a 40 g FOWLR salt tank, I know I would turn it into a reef and that is not a good $$$ idea right now.) It will either be a Ram/Cardinal tank, or a tank for shell dwellers Lamprologus ocellatus. I can't find very much information for Lamprologus ocellatus on WetWebMedia. Do you know anything about them? Are they an interesting fish with personality? < The little shell dwelling cichlid from Lake Tanganyika like hard alkaline water of at least 80 F. Males get over an inch while females usually stay under an inch. They can be kept in a small group and are continually moving substrate around as they rearrange their tank. very easy to care for and breed.> I have an RO unit so I can adjust the water for either Rams or Shellies. Which do you think would make for a more interesting tank (or if it was yours which would you set up?) Just curious. Thanks, Michelle < Wild rams are a personal favorite. They like warm water of about 82 F. Once they are settled in the are always challenging each other with a charging display that is very entertaining. The rams are more difficult to keep but the lamps are very easy to keep and breed.-Chuck> Cichlids For a 37 gallon Tank - 5/11/06 Hello, I am in the process of setting up a 37 gal tank and would like to stock it with cichlids. I'm not sure what would be good candidates for this size tank. Also I was thinking of adding a blue crayfish if that is at all possible. Any comments or thoughts would be greatly appreciated and very helpful. Thank you for your time. Jason < Lots of choices. I suggest your read the book "Enjoying Cichlids" By Ad Konings @ Cichlidpress. Lots of great info that covers almost all the groups of cichlids. A crayfish would always try to catch a fish and eat it. When the crayfish sheds his exoskeleton it becomes vulnerable to being eaten by fish until the new shell hardens.-Chuck> Cichlids For a Small Aquarium - 04/27/06 Greetings everyone. I'm considering setting up a 20-gallon (long) tank in my office and don't know what fish to populate it with. I'm leaning towards cichlids because of their interesting behavior. Ideally whatever fish I choose will not outgrow the tank. Perhaps a pair of Kribensis and/or Rams? A breeding pair would be ok (and certainly make my work-day more interesting -- LOL!). Or would larger cichlids be feasible -- perhaps a pair of Firemouths or Keyholes or Blue Acaras? Can you suggest any others? Thanks -- any advice is appreciated! Ricq < If you wanted a planted aquarium then rams, Kribensis and keyholes would work out fine. Firemouths and Acaras would tear up the plants while spawning. After a few spawns they tend to pick on the females. Another suggestion would be shell dwelling cichlids from Lake Tanganyika. They stay small. Live and breed in small old snail shells. They are constantly moving the sand around and rearranging the shells. Lamprologus multifasciatus is a great one for starters. Males get about two inches with females barely making an inch. You can have one male with lots of extra females. Lots of fun to watch.-Chuck> Big Cichlid tank stkg. Hello, I am trying to come up with a possible stock list to fill a 96x48x36 (720gallon) aquarium in my basement. The tank is up and running and currently being cycled. I have had experience with cichlid keeping but nothing on this scale. I will be purchasing all of these fish as juveniles hoping it to be their permanent home. Please review this list and let me know what you think. I had the company install a very efficient filtration system. It is a completely automated system rated up to 2000 gallon aquaria. (DialySeas Model 1 and CADS) So I hope filtration won't be an issue. Will this tank be adequate for such a list? Will these fish co-exist together? Thank you for your time and your expertise. I'm sure I will be reviewing your FAQ's frequently in the future, as I am installing two more 300 gallon aquariums on the side walls of this room. The 720 will be the centerpiece. I guess the only trouble then will be leaving this room. Any help is appreciated. Pictures are coming soon, but after inhabitants are introduced. The list is as follows: Main Cichlid Inhabitants: Convict (1), Firemouths (5), Salvini (1), Nicaraguan (1),Texas (1), Grammode (1), Red Terror (female) (1), Friedrichstahlii (1), Cuban (1),Vieja Synspilum (1), Vieja Zonatus (1), Vieja Argentea (1), Vieja maculicauda (1), Green Terror (1), Snook (1)Schooling Fish: Red Hook Silver $$$ school (12-15),Others< L-18 Gold Nugget Pleco (1), L025 Scarlet Pleco (1), Jello Band Catfish [Aguarunichthys torosus] (1), Merodontotus Tigrinus (1),Thanks, Tristan Johnson, < Your fish selection basically have all the same water requirements. The smaller cichlids, convicts, Firemouths and salvini will do OK until the others begin to outgrow them. The catfish and snook will eat the smaller fish as soon as they are able to fit them into their mouths. Aggressive fish like the grammodes, red terror, Cuban and Friedrichstahlii will eventually beat up the other fish and then each other. Getting enough food to all the fish, especially the catfish will be a challenge because all the silver dollars will not allow too much to reach the bottom.-Chuck> Colorful Dwarf Cichlids 3/2/06 What is the largest pair of cichlids (full grown in inches) that would live (at full size) comfortably in a 20 gallon long tank (cycled)? I would like a pretty colorful fish/pair for the tank, but don't want to crowd them. I currently have two large gold fish in the tank--but they are going to the outside pond in the spring (3 feet deep and 4 feet square--lots of room and 3 other healthy goldfish). Color is a biggie this time--I have a plethora of Convict Cichlids--and they are grey and hide all day. Thanks! < Lots of choices. Archocentrus nanoluteus or myrnae from Central America. Any of the neolamprologines or Julidochromis species from Lake Tanganyika. If you have soft acidic water then any of the South American or West African dwarf cichlids would be just fine.-Chuck> Poor Choice of Cichlids/Fish - 02/25/06 I have a 20 gallon tank with an albino Oscar and at the moment an electric yellow Labidochromis and want to add one or two more, but my question is are there any algae eaters or snails etc. that can be mixed with them? Thanks Jeff < The Oscar will get 12 inches long and the yellow lab will get at least 4 inches. These fish grow way too large foe a 20 gallon tank. get rid of these fish and get some dwarf cichlids like kribensis, then you can add algae eaters and snails.-Chuck> Looking For Severums 2/1/06 I was told by a fellow I had e-mailed to e-mail you regarding my quest. That is I have been looking for some Severums to fill my 80 gallon tank and to hopefully get some to pair off. Now to my dilemma. I am having some difficulty finding them or any for that matter. I live in central Oregon and the local pet stores don't know what I am asking for and the ones that do. Don't know where to get them, so I thought it would be best to look on line. I still can't find any. I find plenty of pictures and old, old letters of people from the United Kingdom selling them. Is there any place I can find them sold in the USA? Can I still find the small ones for fairly cheap? By cheap I mean $3-7 dollars a piece. If you can find the time to write me back and let me know I would be very grateful. Thank You, Eric Stafford in Oregon. < In Portland Oregon there is a place called the Cichlid Exchange run by a good friend named Steve Lundblad. Severums are not rare and I am sure he can help you out. Do a Google search for the Cichlid exchange and contact him for these and other fish that would work well together.-Chuck> Parachromis motaguensis 9/5/05 My name is Christine, and I have heard about a fish - the Red Tiger Motaguense or Parachromis motaguensis - and could not find much about it online. I've used your site before and its really great. So I thought that you guys (and girls) could help me out on this. Thanks so much! Christine <Hi Christine, Parachromis anything is going to be a big mean fish eating cichlid from Central America. P. Dovii and P. Managuensis are the two bad boys that come to mind. P. Motaguensis is smaller coming in at just under a foot. There is a good article on these fish at the link below. Best Regards, Gage http://www.aquarticles.com/articles/breeding/Kutty_P_motaguensis.html > Cichlids and Shoehorns - 08/23/2005 Hey, I was wondering what would be a good cichlid to put in my 20 gallon tank with: 2 Dalmatian mollies 2 rainbow sharks 3 platies 2 fish that get to be 2 inches that like to hang by the top 3 schooling fish that get to be 2 inches and 1 neon blue dwarf gourami. <None.... This tank is already overstocked.> Thanks, Tommy <Wishing you well, -Sabrina> Kribs Or Discus? - 08/21/2005 Hello! <Ahoy thar, matey!> Out of pure curiosity, would it be better to have Kribs in a 30 gal. tank or could you put in a couple of Discus? <I would go for Kribs, myself.... A much better fit.> How many of each? <I would STRONGLY recommend a single pair - one male, one female - and if you do Kribs, some peaceful dithers like danios or something. More than a pair is going to be asking for trouble when (not if) they decide to breed. You *could* do a pair of discus, but they get quite large and would likely do best as the only fish in the tank.> If you chose could you put both in? <I would urge against it. Wishing you well, -Sabrina> Midas Cichlid Worth the Gold 8/22/05 Hi. I was wondering if you could help me find out how much to pay for a good midas adult cichlid as I have a adult midas but looking to get another and not sure how much to pay for one. I know they are quite rare especially in the UK any help would be great. Cheers Pete < In Calif. they are pretty plentiful and not very expensive. People buy them small and don't anticipate them getting as big as they do. Then they give them back to the fish store because they are too big for their tank. In the US we have a website called aquabid.com that is an eBay for fish and aquarium supplies. This is a very useful tool to obtain rare species. Because you want a pretty big fish I would suggest that you start locally and call fish stores in your area. You may have to expand your search to a wide area that you are willing to travel. You may leave a message with the stores that you are looking for this particular fish and would they be willing to call you if they get one in. Check online and see if there are any aquarium societies in your area. You might find someone ready to get rid of one. As far as determining price, it is supply and demand. An ugly unhealthy fish I wouldn't take for free. A very nice male with good fins and in good health would be worth up $50 US if I were seriously interested in the fish. Good Luck.-Chuck> Stocking a 125G Cichlid Tank 8/3/05 Would you all be able to suggest a community cichlid tank for a 125 gallon? I wanted Oscars, but after reading some of the FAQ on Oscars, I see that I won't be able to put much else in with them. I would really like to keep cichlids. Maybe some medium size, semi-aggressive types. What do you suggest? Thanks for the help Dena < For bigger fish look at chocolate cichlids, Geophagus, Satanoperca, Severums, even some pikes. For medium sized fish you could use angelfish, discus, Festivums and keyhole cichlids. Wild fish may need soft acid water, especially the discus and some Satanoperca species. Others will do OK in normal water around a pH of 7. All of these fish require clean warm water. Nitrates should not exceed 15 ppm with lower being better. Go to mostlycichlids.com to view all the different pike species. You may be interested in the American Cichlid Association so check them out at Cichlid.org-Chuck> Cichlid stocking by rote 07/02/05 i have a very wide mixture of cichlids in my 125 gallon tank from convicts to frontosa . and they all do very well . how many med sized cichlids can i keep in that tank ? i have 2 Fluval 404s and a Fluval 204 on the tank . also where can i get some good breeding Rosey reds ? i am hoping to step up a 20 gal to spawn my own feeders thanks a bunch mike <... the personal pronoun "i" is capitalized... The minnows can't be practically spawned, reared in a twenty... No way to make a valid general statement re the number of "medium" cichlids that can be jammed in a given size system. Bob Fenner> FW Stocking questions Hi I have a 100-liters freshwater aquarium. I first introduced 2 male Firemouths, but they had quite a lot of trouble getting along with each other. I have read that 2 male Firemouths in an aquarium is a pure disaster, as they inevitably fight all the time. <Mmm, not in a large-enough volume> So I decided to remove the most aggressive and add in its place a female Firemouth. The female, was very shy at the beginning and the male bullied her a lot. Especially during feeding time, the male chases her all around the tank. Recently I have noticed that he started to display aggressive behaviour to my 5cm gibbiceps, <For others, this is a type/species of large Plecostomus> claiming his Spirulina tablet. The male Firemouth is now 4-5 centimeters long and the female is a little smaller. Apparently the two Firemouths have not (and will not?) formed a pair. Is this because the male has not reached sexual maturity yet or because the female was added later than the male? Would it be possible for the male to form a pair with a newly introduced female? <A number of possibilities here, but this tank needs a separator... barrier to keep these two apart for a while...> I am thinking of buying a male Nandopsis salvini. I have read that these fish are quite aggressive. Now, i understand that the male Firemouth that has settled in the tank for quite a long time will be aggressive to any new members of the tank. So, I am thinking that adding another aggressive male would turn the Firemouths attention on protecting himself from the salvini and in that way would reduce the stress level of the female Firemouth. Is my thought correct? <Good ideas, but this system is too small for this addition> Would this help to minimize both the Firemouths and the salvini's aggressiveness ? Would both males target the female? Would it be possible to end up with a dead fish, either one of the males or the female? What would your suggestion be? Should I add a female Firemouth instead? How would the male react in that case? Thanks for your trouble answering my long letter Spyros <Save up for a larger system... (If you were a native speaker/writer of English I'd have someone read over your messages... there is a lack of agreement in tense of your verbs/preterites, and number with some of your nouns...) Bob Fenner> Hot Firemouth Cichlids Hi, I have 2 male Firemouths in a 25 gal aquarium. The one constantly chases and bites on the other. The weaker one has 3-4 holes (bites) on its head now and a very long cut on his tail fin (it almost reaches the body). In the past, this fish has suffered similar injuries (torn fins, even bites on the head) but was healing very quickly. However, now it seems too weak, almost unable to recover, doesn't move around a lot. I am thinking of returning the stronger fish to my LFS (if I keep this one, it would be almost impossible to introduce new fish) and keeping the weaker one alone, for a week or two, until it heals completely. Then I will add a female Firemouth and probably a couple of blue Acaras. What's your opinion? Is my choice wise or should I be waiting for a probable loss of the weaker fish? Thank you very much for your help Spyros <The best way to start a tank is to get all the cichlids you want a small individuals of about an inch or so and let them grow up together. One or two fish in a tank is a sure disaster. I would recommend that you put the dominant Firemouth in a breeder net for awhile and add the rest of the fish into the tank (Acaras, etc...). I would add another Firemouth and at least three Acaras. Move all the rocks and ornaments around to different locations. At night before you turn off the lights you can reintroduce your feisty Firemouth. Turn down the water temp to 75 degrees F. The next day the fish will all be busy establishing territories. At around one to two inches they may start pairing up. The odd unpaired fish will be killed. I use lots of floating plastic plants to let the oddball fish hide in. The oddball fish can then be removed easily by placing a net under the plants and lifting them out. The remaining pairs will establish a territory at either end of the tank and guard the eggs and fry from the other fish. Males of both species get up to 6 inches so you better start thinking about a bigger tank soon.-Chuck> How Many Cichlids can a Cichlid Tank Hold? I have a 57 gallon tank of small to medium size cichlids. I have a Eheim filtration system which is big enough to use in a tank in the 100 gallon range.( I bought it with the intent of eventually getting a bigger tank). So, I have been told I can put between 15-20 fish. What do you think? Thanks, Debbie < All depends what kind of cichlids you are planning to keep. Twenty or so Africans from Lake Malawi won't be too bad depending on the species. Central and South American species are substrate spawners and have been known to take over a half a tank when they spawn. _Chuck> The Most Colorful Fish? Hello, and good day. <Hey there, Mike G here> I have gone through the main page, and tried to figure out where I could, or rather how I would word my question to send me to the right direction. I did find though some people that are mad at someone on the other end of a computer, for not giving the correct info so they can make their tank better. Shame on you for not knowing everything about everyone that has a tank, where its kept, the species they have, etc., etc. (lol). I guess some people have more time than others. <This is true.> Anyhow. I, for one, tried to check out as much as I can, but still confused. <That's what we're here for.> I have a 46 gallon tank and want to know what is the most colourful freshwater fish that I can put in? <Well, colorful is a matter of personal taste and opinion. On the topic of opinions, I personally like Rams and Peacock Haps in terms of coloration, but that's just me.> I would like no bigger than four inches if I could. I was told about "Kribs" and "rams". are they compatible? I found German, African, south American......I like colour so any help would be appreciated. I have a ten gallon as well, but only have mollies, stripes and tetras, so this is new and looking for a exciting challenge. <Kribensis, Pelvicachromis pulcher, and Rams, Microgeophagus ramirezi, are little gems of cichlids, are fairly easy to keep, and are compatible. It looks as if you have done the selecting for yourself. Check the following links for information on these fishes: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/rams.htm http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/afrcichlids.htm > Black Convict Q is not the real issue
here Hey Guys, I have a 29 gallon, currently 1 green terror
3", Jack Dempsey 1" 1 Jewel fish 2.5" Black Convict
3.5" and 2 Red Tiger Oscars 2" and 5" Pleco.
<You're joking right?> Anyway the tank started a month ago
and at that time I was minus the Oscars and the Pleco and Plus 1
Convict. The 2 Convicts chased each other all day and I thought it was
just play. Anyway I went away and threw in a seashell 14 day feeder
which I think they devoured quickly. <These chalky feeders have
little, VERY little nutritional value... it likely just dissolved... is
clogging your substrate> Anyway, I came back, and 1 convict was
dead. I figured that it was the high nitrogen level from the food in
the tank. I did a 30% water change and my levels are ok - ph a bit
high, and water very hard. <Uhh, how high, how hard? Can't see
your test results from here.> I introduced the Oscars, and the Black
convict has been terrorizing them for 2 days straight, I think nipping
fins. <My friend... this tank is insanely overcrowded... IF you
wanted to keep all that you have listed above, you would want to have a
tank of at least 125 gallons> I am concerned, because I thought the
Oscars were supposed to be bad-asses. Anyway what can I do about the
convict? Do I need to remove him? Or maybe throw in a feeder for him to
get it out of his system with? I think he killed his convict brother )
Also if the convict is removed will the fins grow back? thanks <Time
to go back... Waayyy back, and re-think your stocking
"plan"... Take back all but one of the cichlids and you can
keep the Pleco with it. Bob Fenner> Just bought 3 Oscars Hello, I just bought 3
medium size Oscars from PetSmart last night. They told me that they
would be OK in my 46 gallon tank.... even if they get to be 12 inches
long a piece.... After reading a bit on your website... it sounds like
they were wrong!! What should I do? Can I make it work? They are doing
very well right now. < Check the nitrates. They should not exceed 25
ppm. If they do then you need to change some water to get them down. I
think you will find that you will need to change water at least a few
times a week with this many large Oscars in this tank. They will
eventually get sick and not look very good or you will get tired of
changing 25 gallons of water every other day. Start thinking about a
larger tank in the next few months.-Chuck> Please help! Kathy
Houston, TX. Looking for triangle cichlids... in Macedonia! I'm interested to bay UARU AMPHIACANTHOIDES, but it's very difficult to find that kind of fish in my country stores. I'm from MACEDONIA. Can you help me with some addresses or contacts? Thank you for attention!! < In the US there are many cichlids that stores do not carry. They either don't think that they will sell or don't take the time to find them. So here a national cichlid club exists called the American Cichlid Association. Here members can find almost any cichlid that exists. I would recommend that you try and find any aquarium societies in your country. If that doesn't work then there is one guy in Canada I think can help you. He sends fish all over the world. His name is Oliver Lucanus and you can contact him at his web site at Belowwater.com. The South American fish he gets are awesome!!!-Chuck> Stocking all levels Hello <hi, this is Magnus> I have recently cycled a new tank 55 gallon tank and have slowly been adding fish . Right now I only have 4 fish in it 2 Rainbow cichlids and 2 yoyo loaches the seem to be doing well together all are small 2 inches and under, I realize my cichlids will get around 5 to 6 inches so I don't want to overstock.... but would like to have activity at different levels of the tank and still be compatible any ideas. I really don't have any preferences would just like a happy healthy tank. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. <the cichlid world is a big one, and there are lots and lots of cichlids you could probably choose from. I suggest you check out our cichlid FAQ section and see if you can find one that strikes your fancy, then see if it will go with your fish. Here is our Compatibility FAQ. Please check through the other links given on the site to learn more about the wild world of cichlids! http://wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/cichlidcompfaqs.htm Good Luck and enjoy reading about these amazing fish! -Magnus> Thanks ahead of time In search of the Golden eye Do you know where I can purchase golden eye cichlids? <Sure do. Nannacara anomala, or the Golden eye Cichlid is a rare and wonderful find. You'll see them from time to time, but most mail order them from a cichlid specific source such as http://www.fishhead.com/. If they're not in stock at this time of year, most e-tailers will hold one for you when it arrives. Best of luck finding one! Ryan> Teri Lutz South American cichlid tank Hello, Would like to get advice: <Great! That's why were here :) > Just recently bought a 20 gallon fish tank and would like to have South American Cichlids. Can you please tell me how many of them I can keep in such a small tank? <Well, that really depends on what, specifically, you want. For example, Oscars are SA cichlids, but I don't think you could fit one in a 20g with a shoehorn in one hand and a plunger in the other. You've got lots and lots of options, though, as there are many SA cichlids that do stay quite small.> And what kind do you think I should invest in. <My personal favorites are Apistogramma agassizii, A. cacatuoides, and Papilochromis (or is it Microgeophagus?) ramirezi (ram cichlids). You could easily keep one breeding pair of dwarf cichlids in the 20g. Which species you keep is largely a matter of your own personal taste.> Also, what community fish can I keep? <With the pair of cichlids, you could probably keep a very small handful of small schooling fish, something like neons, white clouds, or Hatchetfish.> Thank you a lot. Claudia Cavazos <Sure thing! -Sabrina> South American Cichlids and compatibility Hello, First, I
would like to thank you for all of your efforts in making WWM such an
excellent site. Here is my dilemma. About a year
ago we purchased a 150 gallon aquarium with a pre-filter and wet/dry
sump and stocked it with South American Cichlids. We added
two 1.5 inch Oscars, two 1.5 inch Green Terrors, one 1.5 inch Jack
Dempsey and a 3 inch Pleco. All was well for about six
months, then the larger Green Terror which is now about 3 inches long
was pushing around smaller Terror which is only slightly larger then
when we first got it, and the Jack Dempsey, now a little larger than 4
inches was aggressive towards the Oscar's, which were already about
five inches long, but for some reason neither of the
Terrors. Not wanting to see any of the fish harmed we set up
two separate thirty gallon tanks, medicated the slight wounds on the
Oscar's and the smaller Terror and ordered another
tank. The new tank is 240 gallons and we thought all would
be well as we would put the less aggressive Oscars and the small Terror
in the new tank and add a few non aggressive friends, such as a few
large clown loaches, a 5 inch Bala Shark and a 5 inch Royal
Pleco. As you probably guessed since I am typing this
e-mail, all is not well. The Oscars which seemingly got
along well before, started to get pushy with one another and the
smaller Terror now thinks it owns the new setup. None of the
Cichlids are bother the Bala, Loach or Pleco, but they seem to have an
issue with one another. I removed the least aggressive Oscar
and things have calmed a bit. My questions are this, the 240
gallon tank has large rock caves, and plenty of hiding spaces, could I
move the Jack Dempsey and larger Terror to the 240 gallon tank and
place the sissy Oscar in the 150 gallon setup with just non aggressive
fish? Since the Oscar has been in the larger tank for a
little while, might the Jack Dempsey be less aggressive and find his
own area such as a cave, etc? I thought the 8 foot long tank
would be big enough to have a few cichlids, am I incorrect? Any
thoughts about placing these fish in groups that would exist well would
be appreciated. Otherwise, I guess I could get a 90 gallon
tank for the Oscar. Thank you very much, Joe <Hi Joe, I would
try putting the less aggressive Oscar in the 150 like you suggested and
move the Jack into the 240. Your more aggressive Oscar may
be able to hold his own, but I would be prepared to move him back into
the 150 as well. There is going to be aggression no matter
what you do, as long as it does not get too bad I would not
worry. They are going to fight like crazy when first
introduced, then they will calm down a little. Keep an eye
on them to make sure no one is getting beat too badly. My
roommates Oscar got whooped on by his Green Terror, and had to be
separated, I think he was mentally scarred, took him months to return
to his big aggressive self. Oscars are a lot more sensitive
than people think. Let us know how it turns
out. Bob just posted a good article on
Oscars. Best Regards, Gage http://wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/oscars.htm >
Re: Buying Cichlids Hi, Was wondering if you guys had any recommendations for sites to buy Mbuna cichlids? Thank-you in advance, Jesse <Sorry, the only one I've dealt with personally and would recommend is no longer breeding and has sold out. Armke's Rare Fish (search Yahoo for Armke's) has a good reputation but I've never dealt with them personally so can't say for sure. You might join some of the Cichlid mailing lists on Yahoo and see who is recommended there. There are some serious Cichlid collectors there so they should be able to head you in the right direction. Ronni> Adventures in Livestocking I was wondering if you could give me some help? I have a 30 gallon tank and I am an inexperienced hobbyist. I have 9 total fish in the tank and would like to add some more colorful fish. I have two electric yellow cichlids, 1 blue whale (I believe it is called that) and don't unfortunately know the other fish. Could you please let me know about how many more if any can go in this tank and what types would be best. I was thinking about a parrot fish. It is a brackish taken because of the spotted puffers. This leads me to my other question, can the two puffers I have live together? Everything I read says know but the fish store thought they would be fine together. One of them looks very healthy but the other (living together for two weeks now) looks like he has lost weight and is no longer "puffed." He also has what looks like two holes near his side fins, like the gills were pulled apart. Any help you could give me would be great. >> >> Wowzah... a thirty gallon is very small to try adding livestock "hit and miss" as you've done... I strongly encourage you to study up (read books, magazines, chat with other hobbyists) before adding anything more to this system... Though African Cichlids (and much that can be placed with them) can be crowded together to reduce aggression...a thirty is too little to do this with medium to larger sized species... Bob Fenner Oscar Tankmates can you please tell me what fish can go in with 2 juvenile Oscars.. they aren't aggressive, unless they are hungry, but I feed them three times a day, so I think they should be fine, but can you tell me all they fish that can go safely with them? >> Many choices in rough and tumble fishes here... other South and Central American Cichlids and catfishes would be my choices... How big a system do you have? Will your filtration handle more load? |
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