Murrayjane
Fish Fanatic
I have recently began my first Cichlid aquarium. In a 55 gallon, I have a juvenile Electric Blue Dempsey (2 inch), a Firemouth (4 inch) and two Convicts (1-2 inch). I initially had a 5 inch Green Terror, but due to me being a Cichlid novice, I made the mistake of leaving part of the tank exposed overnight, giving him/her the opportunity to jump out. 
Nonetheless, I am in partial relief as a Green Terror can definitely become a dominating menace which may have caused severe problems for the other tank mates.
Through observation, my Firemouth has a strong tendency to hide and though I understand that they need a place to roost (nest), is this sort of behavior normal for a newly added member, or is this a sign of any discomfort? I also note that I don't see him eating, but he seems well in terms of being full of color and being alert. Overall, he hasn't approached or taken interest in any of the other Cichlids in the tank and I fear that he may just be a timid fish. Will this heal in time?
My other question is now that my Green Terror has deceased, what would be a sufficient new member to the tank? I am more than willing to say that once my fish grow to an ample size I will upgrade to a 75+ (preferably 125 gallon). Through my own research, I would not want to add an Oscar as they are highly pollutant and aggressive. What sort of other Cichlids or other species should I consider?
Nonetheless, I am in partial relief as a Green Terror can definitely become a dominating menace which may have caused severe problems for the other tank mates.
Through observation, my Firemouth has a strong tendency to hide and though I understand that they need a place to roost (nest), is this sort of behavior normal for a newly added member, or is this a sign of any discomfort? I also note that I don't see him eating, but he seems well in terms of being full of color and being alert. Overall, he hasn't approached or taken interest in any of the other Cichlids in the tank and I fear that he may just be a timid fish. Will this heal in time?
My other question is now that my Green Terror has deceased, what would be a sufficient new member to the tank? I am more than willing to say that once my fish grow to an ample size I will upgrade to a 75+ (preferably 125 gallon). Through my own research, I would not want to add an Oscar as they are highly pollutant and aggressive. What sort of other Cichlids or other species should I consider?
