Plants with Cichlids?

[sillymikey]

Im in process of cycling my tank, and want to add plants. My problem is, I want to have a African cichlid set-up. I've heard from some books that Cichlids dont do well with plants because they dig them up and eat them, and have heard from others it doesnt matter. I've even seen some setups that have cichilds AND plants and dont see the cichlids do anything. Can anyone give me an answer? And also, how long after I add my plants should I add my fish:?

[valerie]

I have java fern in my african tank and i used to have pothos(house plant that does ok under water for a while). Both are good since the fish don't like to eat them. The java fern is attached to rocks so you won't have to worry about them digging it up.

I have also heard of people using anubias(sp?) since they have harder leaves the fish can't eat them.

Now everyone has varied sucess with different plants because some fish will eat any kind of plant. So if you don't want to keep replacing them i would suggest plastic.

ps: I have peacocks and haps so that might makea difference since none of my fish at strictly veggitarian like Mbuna.

[VoodooChild]

I've had good luck with Tangs and live plants.

[ROYWS3]

My brother (with my help of course) set up a planted 55 AC tank. Along with the above mentioned plants, we put in Hygo. Polysperma and a lot of Contortionist Val. The Val was planted in clay pots filled with Schulz Clay Soil Conditioner. All of his plants are growing very well, and the fish don't seem to bother them one bit. I only see the tank once a month or so, so I can definately see the growth.
Hope this helps,
ROY

[sillymikey]

cool! thanks for the advice! Now, can anyone recommend a good light bulb to get for the plants? The one that I have came with the lamp and lid, so Im not sure if I need a new one

[sillymikey]

anyone have any pics of these plants? or know of any otherS?

[bassounds]

I have an african cichlid planted tank. i keep the pH at 7.5, and kH at 14 degrees (amoung other values). The fish have bread (pseudotropheus greshakei) with several other related mbuna doing well in the tank. I use CO2 injection and a pH controller, but that is not essential. Check out this site for great info on planted african tanks: great site (http://www.malawicichlidhomepage.com/aquainfo/planted_mbuna_tank_1.html)


Cheers,
-A

[sillymikey]

wow. Awesome site! Thanks!