Cichlid(s) With Personality For 75g?

[LindaD]

I'm setting up a 75g shortly.. and I'm looking for some help with my fish selection. Since this aquarium will be in a high traffic area, I want fish that are not going to be 'shy'. My preference is also leaning towards the medium/large Cichlids.

I've had Oscars in the past, but I was hoping for to stock this tank with more than one fish. (Although I've been known to change my mind.. lol). Are they any other cichlids that can rival Oscars in the personality department?

Thanks in advance :)

[lee914]

I have never seen a fish with the unique personality of the Oscar, although there are plenty who are not shy as well. Maybe look at the rock dwellers, you can stock many of them, they only get maybe 2-3 inches and they do have some great color. Try either the "mbuna" malawi set up or Tanganyika shell dwellers or rock dwellers. The oscar really spoiled me, but...I do like the color of some of the smaller cichlids.

[peifc]

There are many cichlids that have great personalities. My Carpintis hates my camera lights. When the light is on, he will try to attack it. I love my Green Terror too. He is colorful. Even though he is slow, he stares back when I look at him too closely. I have other smaller cichlids, they are very responsive too. I have C. septemfasciatus, C. Sajica, T. Maculipinnis, T. Aureus Blue, T. sp. Green, and others. They aren't a bit shy. They are definitely fun to keep. I also have Severums. When feeding time, they all come to the top of the tank...sticking the snouts out waiting for food.

[LindaD]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll definately look those up.

I also forgot to mention I have soft water and my PH is a solid 6.6.

I like Severums, but I thought they were a rather shy fish. Would they be bothered by alot of movement around the tank? If not, I may try a few juveniles and see if I can get a pair.

[peifc]

I don't consider severums shy. I have a breeding pair and a few others. None of them ever show shyness around me. When they are breeding, my female will try to attack me through the glass if they think I'm too near to their eggs or fry. My male green severum will attack the fishnet when it was too near to their breeding site. My gold severums always come to the top of the tank I open the lids.

Your water will be fine with severums.

[Harry Tolen]

I agree...severums would be an excellent choice.