How quickly do n. w. cichlids claim territories

[isu_guy]

google hasn't given me much on the topic.

I am going to be setting up a new tank an I was wondering about the correct way to stock. normally for a tank I would stock slowly, even after it is cycled, but with cichlids I'm wondering if it is best to put many in a tank rather than put a few in at a time and have them claim too large a territory.

So... how quickly will they claim a territory and how well can new fish be added if territories are established, given that there is a good amount of rocks, plants, and other landmarks to form territories from?

Thank you for your expertise.

 

[Daveo]

just a matter of time

 

[Vip]

About 6 months or so depending on the tank size.

 

[dirtydogg]

If you are worried about it, try re-arranging the tank some before adding a new cich it'll re-start the process.