Dwarf Cichlids in community tank

[diehl2229@bells]

I am setting up a 36 gal. corner planted which I would like to keep a scoal of tetras, a few bottom fish like otos, dwarf rainbows, killifish etc. I was hoping to put one pair of pretty Dwarf cichlids that would get along with the rest? But not sure if Cichlids can live in water with PH in the 7 range? So what do all you cichlid experts suggest?:)

[Cathy G]

If your pH is say 7.4-7.6 Bolivian rams - a pair would be great. You could also have a trio 1male/2 female Apist. borelli. If your pH isn't any higher than the 7.6, you just might be able to have Blue rams too... You could also consider Apist. cacatoides.

[jessicar613]

I'm not a "cichlid expert" but since you have a lot of color in your tank already you might get some keyhole cichlids. They are a nice champagne color when their needs are met. They are a little larger than rams, but should still be fine for your tank, and will be happy with your ph.

They are really fun fish to watch. Not flashy, but very pretty.

[Jayhawk]

Laetacara curviceps (flag cichlid) or dorsigera (red breasted dwarf cichlid) will also work. I like all the fish mentioned, but since dwarfs aren't always the most common it's nice to have options when heading to the LFS.

Eric

[diehl2229@bells]

Thanks for all the replies. I really want a colorful one that stands out but doesn't get very big:)

[Jayhawk]

None listed above will look colorful in the LFS FWIW. They only color up at home as they grow up. Bolivian rams are white with nice yellow on the body and red and blue on the fins.

L. curviceps have nice blue flanks. L dorsigera gets the blue, too, along with a red belly.

Keyholes have their own unique look. Go to google images and search the names we've listed to see multiple images - most will be of adults.

Eric

[mooman]

With dwarfs you'll most likely have to settle for whatever your LFS carries or can order for you.

[diehl2229@bells]

Thanks everyone:) I kinda like these what do you think?

http://www.cichlid-forum.com/profiles/species.php?id=1437

[steffish]

How about Apisto agassizi?

[mooman]

the cacatuoides is an excellent beginner apisto. colorful, readily available (as readily available as any apisto) and will thrive and breed in slightly harder water than most other members of the genus. Only down side is thier short life span (females 1-2 years males 2-4). Silver lining is that they spawn very readily. I would get a growout tank (barebones 10g) ready and prepare yourself to become a breeder (if only so you don't have to shell out 40.00 for a new pair every couple years.

These were the fish that hooked me on dwarfs and are still a favorite.