Angels and Rams

[deadxero]

I'm currious about the compatability between Rams and Angels. I'm thinking a pair of each in my 55. I would likely keep a reasonable size school of smaller fish, maybe Rummies, and 5-6 corys on the bottom.

[Star_Rider]

I keep bolivians with my angels and Discus with no issues..they will spat from time to time but no harm done.

[deadxero]

Thanks. I was also wondering if I would be best to try to find a mating pair of each species, or I if I would be best with 2 males/females one, the other, or both types of fish.

[jpappy789]

I agree. Breeding will require lots of hiding places so make sure you provide some. But no major compatibility issues that would not let you mix them...:)

rams do better in pairs for sure. male will color up better. not sure about angels but 2 males prolly would not be a good idea as with other cichlids

[Star_Rider]

the problem with angels is determining the sex. the opnly reliable method is to wait till they pair up.
if you get 2 males there is a chance they will be ok but If one it a dominant male..no other male will survive.

but you can keep a pair of each in 55..they will have room to set up territory. with rams..1m-2f is the normal mix..while rams are not harem breeders they wil change mates..particulalry the bolivian.

angels don't seem to exhibit this unless the male is not holding up his part where the female may seek a more suitable male.

[deadxero]

Thanks for the info. I think I will likely add the angels first once the tank is cycled. I planning on picking up 5-6 in attempt to put together a pair, then return the rest. The one thing I'm unsure on is at what age the angels will pair up. Will they form a pair as juveniles, or not until they reach maturity?

Are rams easy to sex? If 1male & 2females works best I will go that rout if it's what will keep the fish the happiest.

[jpappy789]

Thanks for the info. I think I will likely add the angels first once the tank is cycled. I planning on picking up 5-6 in attempt to put together a pair, then return the rest.

Are rams easy to sex? If 1male & 2females works best I will go that rout if it's what will keep the fish the happiest.

rams arent too hard to sex but it is best to wait till they mature to determine 100% what sex they are

[Star_Rider]

blue rams are easier to sex than Bolivians.. the most tell tale method is the head shape as finnage may not be relaible.
blue rams..the females will get either a pink or orange belly

[jpappy789]

also males will have a solid black spot, females will have the blue speckles...or is the other way around? males will have a taller dorsal fin but as star_rider said that could be misleading