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Re: getting started with cichlids, need advice
Posted: Wed May 07, 2025 4:46 pm
by whetu
I'd suggest sunnygolds for your tank, 3-5 in total. Protection is key, so create as many caves as you can. I'm not a fan of water buffers - I prefer to buffer the water naturally. I use a lime chip base, it provides the necessary hardness and pH. For maintenance, I do 25% water changes weekly. Aim for a filter that moves your water 4 times per hour. Plants can work, just avoid placing them where they'll annoy the fish. Try Valissneria or Ludwigia, they're decent options.
Re: getting started with cichlids, need advice
Posted: Wed May 07, 2025 5:05 pm
by mintwave
whetu wrote: ↑Wed May 07, 2025 4:46 pm
I'd suggest sunnygolds for your tank, 3-5 in total. Protection is key, so create as many caves as you can. I'm not a fan of water buffers - I prefer to buffer the water naturally. I use a lime chip base, it provides the necessary hardness and pH. For maintenance, I do 25% water changes weekly. Aim for a filter that moves your water 4 times per hour. Plants can work, just avoid placing them where they'll annoy the fish. Try Valissneria or Ludwigia, they're decent options.
I'm surprised, 3-5 Yellow labs is the total number I can keep in my tank? I was under the impression I could have at least 5 or more of each species, I'm not sure how that would work with the space I have available.
Re: getting started with cichlids, need advice
Posted: Wed May 07, 2025 6:04 pm
by mintwave
I just wanted to correct something - I mentioned I had access to Demasoni, but I actually meant Saulosi.
Re: getting started with cichlids, need advice
Posted: Wed May 07, 2025 6:42 pm
by whiskerboy
You'll get a lot of differing views on stocking. It's a minefield. Hundreds of species, all different environmental needs, and adult sizes to consider. I've got a 450 litre tank with 40 fish, but a 55 US gallon tank is a different story.
Re: getting started with cichlids, need advice
Posted: Wed May 07, 2025 7:40 pm
by whetu
mintwave wrote: ↑Wed May 07, 2025 7:07 am
I recently picked up a 55 gallon tank and stand for $100 - what a steal. I'm currently cycling it and I've had my heart set on Mbuna/African cichlids. Given their reputation for being overstocked to reduce aggression, I've invested in a filter with a 10x turnover - about 2000 l/h - to handle the bio-load.
I've got a few questions to help me prepare before bringing my new cichlids home.
1. Is a 55 gallon tank sufficient for African cichlids, considering the dimensions - 100cm length, 40cm depth, and 52cm height?
I've always been drawn to cichlids with vibrant colors, like the yellow labs. I prefer solid colors and would love to have a few of each in the tank.
2. Which African cichlids fit my preferences?
My water is semi-hard due to my location, and I don't think I can invest in a reverse osmosis machine.
3. Can African cichlids thrive in semi-hard water?
I've already got some plants in the cycling tank and I'd hate to get rid of them.
4. Are African cichlids compatible with plants?
Considering my tank size, parameters, and preferences, what type of cichlid would you recommend?
Thanks in advance, everyone!
I had a smaller tank, 200 liters, and I kept 6 fish in it. I know some folks might think that's a lot, but it worked for me. I had two pairs that were spawning and raising young, so I was always removing the babies to make room. It was a bit of a cycle, but it kept my tank interesting.