New to Cichlids - Need Some Advice on Tank Setup and Care

[hssmithh]

Hey everyone,

I’m relatively new to keeping cichlids and I’ve recently started setting up a tank specifically for them. I am using Splunk tool to monitor their behaviors and pH level. I’ve done a bit of research and found these articles https://www.capitalcichlids.org/forums/threads/african-cichlid-recommendations-for-20-gallon.33572/ Splunk Tutorial but would love some guidance from the experts here to make sure I’m on the right track.

A few things I could use advice on:

• Tank size: I’ve got a 55-gallon tank— is that good for a starter group? How many cichlids should I be aiming for without overcrowding?
• Water parameters: I’ve heard mixed things about ideal water pH and hardness. Any tips on getting it just right for a variety of cichlids?
• Tank mates: I’d love to mix in a few other fish if possible. Any recommendations on good tank mates that won’t cause trouble with the cichlids?
• Feeding: What kind of diet works best for them? I’ve seen flakes, pellets, and live food all mentioned, but I’m unsure which is the best or how to balance them.

Any tips, tricks, or general advice from the community would be super helpful! Thanks in advance!

 

[gwand]

You need to specify what species you are considering. East African lake cichlids require hard water, around 300 ppm. South American cichlids require soft acidic water. West African Kribensis can live with a GH up to around 175 ppm but prefer slightly acidic water. Central American cichlids require hard water. For African cichlids dither fish are a good addition to help keep the tank peaceful. I prefer Congo tetras or red cap moon tetras, 6-8 of them for a 55 gallon tank. In my 60 gallon tank dedicated to West African cichlids I have six Anomalochromis thomasi (butterfly cichlids), a pair of Pelvicachromis kribensis pulcher Ndonga and 8 yellow tail Congo tetras. I am not adding any more fish. The Kribs are cave dwellers and live in one end of the tank. The butterflies spawn on flat surfaces and occupy the other end of the tank. This helps to keep the peace. If you go for West African lake cichlids I recommend not mixing fish from different lakes to avoid a blood bath. If you’re new at kee cichlids I recommend the relatively peaceful electric yellow and the rusty cichlids.