Clichilds

[lee24]

hiya there could any one give me some advice on setting up a tank for cichlids im about to set up a tank for clichlids and going to start breading them i know to breed them i need to have a dark background with dark graval stones and slate for them to set there sperm on iv got a 2ft tank for my breading pair and a 4ft just to have my clichlids in but wats the best ones to breed and what type of things would i need in my 4ft to keep ph up iv got coral sand and coral rocks what else can i add in there and whats the best filters to use

 

[fish are friends....]

To breed in a 2ft tank, I think only kribs would be possible in my oppinion. They are not picky on water quality. They tend to like slightly alikine water about 7.5-8, and around 26'C. Sand substate is great for them as they like to dig pits for their fry. They spawn in caves, so upturned flower pots, coconut shell cave (usually avalible at your fish shop) stone caves are all good, but nothing with a big entrance as the female would like to feel secure.

The krib care for their fry so no need to capture them once the eggs have hatch, although be warned, it does take a couple of times for them to get it right.

I'd buy 2 male and 5 female juviniles untill a pair has formed, then take the others back and move the pair to the breeding tank. You'll know if a pair has formed as they will show bright colours and also do a lot of 'body shaking' and 'dancing' for eachother.

Filter wise, for your breeding tank, just a normal internal would be fine. Maybe one that turns the tank volume 2-3 times an hour.

Hope this helps.