Fish Forum - View Single Post - New Tank for Cichlids

jillinsavannah · #1 (**permalink**) 02-01-2007, 12:05 AM

Given 100 gal (6' x 1.5' x 1.5') with Fluval 304's (70 gal each). Want to set up with African Cichlids for movement and color. Husband is terminally ill and although I enjoy and always wanted a 100 gal, I think he will find this entertaining & relaxing.

1. I have set up two of the canister filters. Is this enough for cichlids or should I set up the 3rd? Where can I buy spare parts? (intake tube & bottom screen, hose guides)

2. I have gravel/river pebbles on one side and play sand on the other. I have several plastic plants, a couple of slate caves and 8 or so blue or green glass bottles laying in the bottom. Do I need more plants? Rocks? Husband thinks I will get too cluttered and I like the look so far, but I want the FISH to be happier than my husband.

3. Do not have heater set up - temp currently standing about 77F. Will I need a heater for Cichlids (not discus - too expensive)?

4. From what I have read, I need to get a water testing kit. Where should I keep what levels?? i.e. PH at 8.0 to what?? Any kit suggestions?

5. Can I keep a couple of angels as top dwellers and other cichlids as bottom dwellers or will the angels still get roughed up or eaten up?

6. I would like color and schooling movement. What cichlids do you suggest? Peacocks and electric yellow are popular in the fish stores here, as well as a horizonatal zebra stripped gold & black and a bright orange, plain looking fish of which I can't remember the names. I prefer that they get along for the most part, as my family insists I'll kill them all - forgetting my previously successful 20 & 50 gal tanks.

7. I am trying to cycle the tank, clearing up wonderfully and looking good. I have 10 tetra's in for bacteria build up, as I'd rather pay 1.00 a fish for healthier looking fish than the .12 each for feeder fish that didn't look so hot health wise. I do realize that they will probably end up cichlid food. Any other suggestions? If I get ph to good level, when should I add cichlids?

Thanks for the help. I'm getting very anxious and want everything to go right.