SA Cichlid Tank

GT3050

Medium Fish
Apr 14, 2003
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#1
Hi,
I am new to cichlids; although I have been helping and learning from a friend of mine who has kept fish for a while. None of my friends have much experience with cichlids. I am interested in starting a South American Cichild tank. I have a few questions to ask before I start.
My tank will most likely be a 33 gallon kit (the aquarium is 36x12x18). I have several filter options and I'm not sure which one is best. I could mount a AC300+an AC150. This would be the cheapest option as the AC300 comes in the kit and I can get th AC150 from a friend. My second option is a single AC500, this would provide me with slightly more flitration; however I would only have one filter and I'm not sure if the current would be too strong around the intake (this might suck young cichlids into the intake). My thrid option is the most expensive, a fluval 304, mabye with the AC300. Too many options .... sorry if that's hard to follow.
My other questions treats the subjuect of stocking. I am aware that I could probably keep a Convict or Firemouth pair in the tank; however I would perfer to keep a Blue Acara (or a pair if possible). I was also considering a solitary Green Terror or Jack Dempsey. I'm not sure if these fish will fit in the aquarium though. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
 

SoulFish

Superstar Fish
Oct 22, 2002
1,668
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Florida
www.rainbowaquatics.com
#2
id go with AC 300 and AC 150 if that would be cheapest, jacks and GTs get a bit big for the tank, but the firemouth or convict idea sounds good, i dont have as much experience with south american as i do with africans, but if you need help ill do what i can
 

GT3050

Medium Fish
Apr 14, 2003
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#3
Thanks for the reply SoulFish. Something else I am thinking about stocking the tank with is a pair of jewels. I know you're an African expert so i was wondering if a pair (how many could I put in the tank?) would do ok in the 33g. Thanks again.
 

Saint

Medium Fish
Nov 4, 2002
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New Orleans
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#4
I would stay away from the convict pair! I started with 2, male and female. I really like them, dont get me wrong but now I have about 50 (after giving 20 or so to my LFS). They breed like rabbits. It was fun at first, but now it is out of control. Something to think about!