Pretty sure he's not a juvenille as I've had him in that tank for 2 yrs or so. But I am no expert. I don't anticipate on him getting any bigger. Or is it true that the size of the tank really does affect overall size?
Another question...cycling
- Thread starter katana1200
- Start date
YES THE TANK SIZE AFFECTS IT! sorry but i will try to explain this clearly. have u heard the old saying a fish grows as big as his tank? well to a degree thats true BUT! they left out the part that his organs CONTINUE to grow! so they grow to big for him, causing pain to the fish, and rub against each other and make them not work properly. hopefully that makes that clear. and yes a pic of your cichlid would make id'ing so much easier!
It's sad but true. A 2.5 gallon is barely big enough for a betta. And a fish kept in a tank that is too small may become stunted or deformed.
Post a pic and let's see what you've got. I know absolutely nothing about cichlids, but I googled "dwarf african cichlid" and most sites on the net say that 20 gallons is a minimum for the smaller Africans.
Maybe you should start a new thread in the African cichlids forum and post your pic there--that way the cichlid experts can help you decide how big of a tank your guy needs.
Post a pic and let's see what you've got. I know absolutely nothing about cichlids, but I googled "dwarf african cichlid" and most sites on the net say that 20 gallons is a minimum for the smaller Africans.
Maybe you should start a new thread in the African cichlids forum and post your pic there--that way the cichlid experts can help you decide how big of a tank your guy needs.
Well, by looking at several pictures I'm guessing he is a blue zebra (Metriaclima estherae). If this is the case he is a bit small for his breed and not a brightly colored as some of the pictures I've seen. Both could be a result of poor tank conditions, and lack of variety of food. Like too many fish owners I find out after the fact that my fish have more requirements than just food and water. I will be rectifying this situation very soon. Hopefully he will live out the rest of his days in cichlid bliss. I believe he is suited to be alone as he is a very grumpy fish. A 10g should be enough for him and him alone. After the 2.5g its gonna be like "The Jeffersons", movin' on up. Thanks for the constructive concern on his behalf, and don't beat me up too bad, I'm still learning.
Ok, like i said before I'm no expert. But is it your opinion that one 2.5" fish needs a 30gal tank all to himself? If he is a Blue Zebra and he does start to grow again when I put him in another tank his size should only be up to 4" if I'm not mistaken. Just seems like its a bit much. I could be wrong. Some of the sites that I've seen speak of needing alot of space if kept in mating pairs or groups. He may not be a blue zebra at all. Its very difficult to tell. Body and fin shape along with banding seem similar. I do not mean to sound argumentative but I just cant believe that my little fish needs a Malibu mansion lol.
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Posted in Cichlid thread to obtain further advice and ID. This is a picture of Sid in all his glory. Thank you again for the advice and the feedback. I will have him in better conditions shortly.
Oh, and rocker...I owe you an apology. Seems Sid is actually Nancy and she is a female convict cichlid. And 10gal is not enough. Thank you.
