cichlid newbie.

[tolkienapostle]

I am cycling my tank now, and really want a cichlid. I have a 20 gal tank, and really only wnat a cichlid, and maybe one other fish in there. I realize that 20g is kinda small for most cichlids and i was hoping that you guys could point me in the right direction as far as cichlid type that might be compatible in my tank. As well could you maybe recommend another fish that might work with it. If it helps i do plan on upgrading to a 55 gal, im just waiting for a custom stand to be built(you know, has to match the "Decor" according to the wife) before the end of the year. Would getting a young fish that isnt very big yet and moving him to the bigger tank in few months work?

[nmrsco]

you could try some small convicts, then put them in the 55 when you get it and add some other fish. I keep my pair in a 25g with their herd of fry. or you could get some kribs, another of my favorite cichlids.

[tolkienapostle]

what about an angel?

[cichlidsrextrem]

nah not in a 20 mabyee 8 shelldwellers possobly

[nmrsco]

an angel grows too large for a 20g, but if you got some small ones you could move them to the 55 when they get larger. I am not an angel expert, so this is just from what I have heard. a 20g is pretty limited for cichlids, but with the 55 you have many more options

[x0x0x0]

shellies would be nice but then they are pretty hard to come by. What about Kribensis? they're pretty colorful and if you get a pair, you'll end up with loads of fry. You could try festivum/flag cichlid or keyhole cichlids. or One appistograma? firemouth? just some ideas..