starting cichlids tank got some questions

[FiSHY925]

hey im starting a new tank with cichlids i have some questions:
a) best plants
b)best tank arrangement and ornaments

 

[TitansFan]

In my cichlid experience I have found plants to be a waste of time. Most cichlids are earth movers and like to dig and move your gravel. The plants will be constantly pulled up. As for ornaments I use ALOT of rock building caves and multiple level teirs. Building the rock up encourages the fish to use the horizontal space in the tank. Cichlids are very territorial and need good hiding area/homes of their own.

 

[FiSHY925]

how do you pronounce cichlids

 

[Snowie]

how do you pronounce cichlids

"siklids"?

Anyway what kind of cichlids are you planning to keep? It really depens on what kind they are, some go great with plants others will eat them.

 

[semper fi]

depends on the species of fish you are wanting to keep and the plants. i have found that softer plants are quickly eaten. while tougher, more fibrous plants are not as desirable. cichlids do do alot of digging. plants are easily dug up, but if properly anchored it can be done.

do you have any species in mind yet?

 

[gixer]

the term 'cichlids' is a rather broad term.. its a bit like saying i'm thinking of keeping dogs or something..

what sort of cichlids were you considering? Malawis, Tangs, Victoria, new world, american?... there are thousands of species of cichlid.

 

[FiSHY925]

malawis

 

[semper fi]

here is an example of some planted mbuna tanks

http/www.malawicichlidhomepage.com/photos/index.html