hi- advice on a dwarf tank setup

[fishgeek]

Hi i'm new to the list
Have limited experience with cichlids and am wanting to expand into the south american dwarf/apisto area
at present i have 4 bolivian/red rams

Was primarily after advice on species thinking cactoides or agazzis (spelling?) and was after advice for them as far as aquascape
water parameters and ease of care

i think i will be limited to a 2ft tank and i expect to have r/o water available , my tap water is a long way from the S.A water requirements

Any tips or advice greatly appreciated
Andrew

 

[Neil]

fishgeek,

Neither species is particularly difficult in their requirement. So both would be good choices. Of the 2, cacatuoides is the less demanding, which should not be an issue, if you have RO.
Nothing special is needed beyond fairly clean (fairly soft, acidic) water, varied diet, good structure in the tank (Including a couple of caves for breeding), and reasonable tankmates. All of these topics have obviously be discussed heavily here and can be researched via the SEARCH function at the top of this page.
As far as housing them with Bolivian Rams, you may need a larger tank than you otherwise would and very good structure (plands, wood, rocks, etc.) but it can work.
Good luck,
Neil