tank setup

[Kushka4paws]

I was trying to find information on the best set-up for dwarf Ciclids. I am probably being stupid 8O , but I can't seem to locate it. I currently have the Cichlid Sand substrate. What kind of plants or hiding places that they need. If I get shells from the lake, what do I do to get the shells ready for the tank? (if I need shells)

 

[Randall]

Housing dwarf cichlids

Hello Kushka,

Nearly any book specializing in dwarf cichlids discusses appropriate set ups (Linke & Staeck, Mayland & Bork, Romer, Loiselle, Vierke, et al.).

The rules of thumb include a fine substrate, plants, rocks, wood, cave structures and other hiding places. Shells are not recommended for soft water species because they leech calcium carbonate (CACO3) into the water. The substrate used should not harden the water as well.

Good luck!

All the best,

Randall Kohn

 

[Neil]

Kushka4paws,

WELCOME TO THE FORUM

As Randall has mentioned, shells are basically an item needed only if you are intending to work with Tang. shell-dwellers. If this is the case, it will change the other materials that you will likely have in the tank, as well (types of plants, water parms, etc.). It would be helpful to know the species that you are interested in working with and then go from there.

If you, in fact, are interested in soft-water Dwarf Cichlids, you may want to take a look at this article:

http://www.apistogramma.com/cms/Articles/Dwarf_Cichlid_Husbandry/Tank_Set-up_for_Dwarf_Cichlids/

It should give you some ideas of how to proceed.

Good luck,

Neil