New to Cichlids, Advice needed

[BluePlanetGirl]

Hi All,

I'm getting a new fish tank, And planning to get some South American Dwarf Cichlids.
I've joined here to pick everyones brains so that my set-up will be appropriate to house them.
I'd like to know anything you think I need to know!!!!

I would particularly love to get some Borelliis, Ramirezis (German Blue and Gold)

On the wish list would be Apistogramma cacatuoides, and Apistogramma sp. "Steel Blue" But not sure I can even get these where I am.

So any guidance in behaviour and needs, compatability, tanks and fish needs would be much much appreciated.

Thanks in advance

 

[arodg12]

How big is the fish tank going to be? And have you read the proper water conditions to follow for the tank? I'm sure you'll have more questions come your way, and have you kept fish before??
Corey

 

[Hmoobthor]

research, research and more research will help you alot...

as i mention in the other thread who talk about keep a couple species of rams..

all rams are bottom dweller..unless you have enough floor space, try to keep 1 male of ram

 

[animalmgc]

from my understanding a pair of apistos need at least a 12" by 12" space.I would imagine if it was heavily planted you might get away with a couple pairs but for what u want to keep it seems you'd have to have a 4' to 6' tank and again it would have to be heavily planted

 

[tompoz]

For a pair of ramirezi 24"x15" would be needed. However, I am planning to have two pairs and 1+3 A. borelli in a 48"x16"x16" tank. Will see how it works.