Recommendations on Dwarf Cichlids?

[AfroCichlid]

If you like the look of sand lower your flourite level a bit and top it with pool filter sand. Having sand only makes it difficult for some plants to root. Most of the carpeting plants will require strong light.
As far as culling there are a ton of methods dealing with larger fish, but for fry I've always fed them to other tanks. Freezing or Clove oil would probably be the cheapest and most humane way.

 

[Kristinann]

Ok, perfect. is it really necessary that the tank be a 20 long? I want to build a stand with the main tank on a shelf over the fry tank, so it would be nice if the two were uniform

 

[AfroCichlid]

No, it's not necessary, just more space for stocking, less depth for plant lighting.

 

[mugzy]

What is a egg crate? Made of plastic? I would like a cover for spare tank, and would be interested, in finding out what this is.

 

[AfroCichlid]

It's plastic grating used for lighting. You can find it at most hardware stores. It's easy to cut to size and works as an inexpensive alternative to glass lids.

 

[Kristinann]

This has given me a lot to think about, but I am feeling much more confident now.

Are apistos as picky aout who they mate with as rams? Or can you pretty much just get a male and a female?

 

[spencerguy1]

try dwarf cockatoo cichlids

 

[Kristinann]

isn't that A. cacatuoides? That's what I'm looking into most seriously right now.

 

[Kristinann]

Are apistos as picky aout who they mate with as rams? Or can you pretty much just get a male and a female?

Anyone have any thoughts on this?

 

[FishVixen]

Remember Rams are more sensitive with water parameters. If your just starting with cichlids I would lean more toward the apistos. Be sure you have caves and plants for dwarf cichlids as they need hiding places. Rams should be placed in well established tanks IME.