Lighting for Cichilds

[GT3050]

Hi,
As you may know from previous posts, I am going to be buying a 33 gallon aquarium (36x12x18) and stocking it as a species tank. I was considering both JD's and GT's. At my LFS they have a 77 gallon (48x16x24 I t think) show tank set up with several hiding spots made up of driftwood and rock work. There are a few species of cichlids in the tank, but notably there are 2 GT's 1 5" and 1 4", with 2 JD's, both about 4". All the JD's will do is hide among the rock work. I rarely see them. Most of the time all I can see is there head looking out of the cave while the GT swims around and shows off it's beautiful colors. I did some reading and a mag said that JD's can be shy especially if the lighting is bright. I was wondering how I could reduce the light level in the tank without using floating plants. Also I really like the GT, but I think it might be better to start with the JD (I would only keep one in the tank all by himself) because they are more hardy. I think it will be possible to switch to a GT later and keep it by its self in the tank rather than the JD. Any opinions or suggestions?,
Thanks

[VoodooChild]

I think that'd only be 75 gallons. I can't think of the specs offhand, but 77 gallons would have to be a European tank or custom made, because that's a pretty unusual size. Anyways! I don't think I'd worry too much about the dempsey not coming out. All of the ones I've seen, and I've dealt with many, are more than happy to come out, especially once you're associated with food. Try getting a good darker gravel. I'm a fan of natural myself, and dark browns would probably help reduce the stress right off the bat. Bright on top and below could contribute to a timidness problem. As for the lights, any standard buld should be fine. Those that are made for plants generally have more yellow (but not always!) in them, and that might be more appealing to a dempsey. Otherwise there's actinic, which are a deep deep blue, which actually could look really cool for a demps' irridescence, but I'd recommend seeing what one shines like first. If you still have problems, by a few dither fish, like giant danios. Once he comes out more, remove the danios before they get knocked off. As far as the switching over goes, I don't really have any experience with GT's but I think a four foot tank would day, providing you filtered and cleaned well and often. Taking the JD back is up to your LFS. Sorry I rambled on here, but I hope it helps.

[GEV83]

If your planing od getting rid of the JD later make sure the pet shop will take in fish some wont take fish if there to big. Also if you going to wait til it die then youll be waiting a while since they could live up to 10+ yrs. If you really want a GT I say go for it. GT arent hard to care for in the sence they dont need special requirements at least last time I checked they didnt there pretty much like the JD as far as enviroment goes and walter conditions if Im wrong I know Ill be corrected. I would go for the GT unless you want the JD more. Your choice though.