Future Plans For 10 Gal Tank

[bluostrich00]

ok this is way future just getting some insight ...tank size will prob change by the time i decide to do this

heres what i wanna do i got a 10 gal and right now i am "seasoning" the tank with some sunburst platys and swordtails
after this tank matures enough i wanna change fish in this tank to a 2-4 cichlids (i know this is prob to many fish for a 10 gal)
i know i will have to have an undergravel filter what else am i gonna need to support these new cichlids?? and what are some smaller mature sized cichilds that would do good with this kinda idea thanks for the help

 

[kj23502]

Cookie Cutter Setup for 10-gallons
(20x10x12 in / 51x25x30 cm)

by the CF Moderators

10 gallons is not a lot to work with! Most cichlid species grow much too large for 10 gallons and so the suitable selection is very limited. We felt that it should be restricted to the dwarf shell dwellers, dwarf julies, and apistos. All of these fishes will feel most comfortable if provided with a fine, sandy substrate. Shells are necessary for the shell dwelling lamprogines. Rocky crevices or ceramic caves are recommended for the julies and apistos. All of these species are egg-layers.

Water changes should be performed religiously - 25% of the water should be replaced every week - because it doesn't require much for a 10-gallon aquarium to get out of equilibrium. A reliable heater is strongly recommended because temperature fluctuations can be quite dramatic with such a small volume. Conversely, if the heater is unreliable, your fish could be cooked in a short period of time.

Filtration should be very simple. A small hang-on-tank power filter is what we recommend. A bio-wheel is a plus. Any submersible filters are discouraged as they take up too much space in a 10-gallon aquarium. An air stone is optional.

Each of these recommended species is compatable with live plants, just don't take up too much already-limited swimming space with too many of them.

Tanganyikan Shell Dweller Aquarium

Select one group from one of the following species:

• 'Lamprologus' brevis - 1 pair
-OR-
• 'Lamprologus' similis - 1 trio
-OR-
• 'Lamprologus' multifasciatus - 1 trio
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Apistogramma Aquarium

• Apistogramma cacatuoides - 1 pair
• Tanichthys albonubes "White Cloud Minnow" - 4

or
• Apistogramma bitaeniata - 1 pair
• Brachydanio rerio "Zebra Danio" - 6

or
• Apistogramma agassizii - 1 pair
• Tanichthys albonubes "White Cloud Minnow" - 4