New Fish

[Matt_B]

Hi,
Ive just bought 8 juvinile convict cichlids, and was wondering what size tank i should keep them in and what arrangements (plants, caves etc) i should have in with them ???

Thanks

 

[Durbkat]

Wait a minute you bought fish without knowing what size tank they need and getting the tank and cycling it? That wasn't really smart. I think the tank size is some tank that is six feet long and 4 or 5 feet high which is a pretty big tank.

 

[freddyk]

A single pair of convicts should have a 25 gallon tank. All they really need is a cave - this can be done with flowerpots, pvc pipe, rocks... the choice is yours. Sand or a fine grade gravel is idea, plants are optional, but will probably not last if the aquarium isn't big. The minimum size tank for two pairs is 55 gallons, and people have found that even this tank can be too small - these are very, very territorial fish when spawning.

 

[ncjharris]

Easy. We all make mistakes sometimes.

I would suggest you research your fish as much as possible. Most Chiclids will need a 40gal at least.
Also try reposting in the Chiclid section and see what you get there.

Be prepared to take them back if you can't care for them properly.

GL

 

[Matt_B]

I bought them from a private seller who said they would be ok but.... You guys are the experts. At the moment they are only 1-2" and are all from the same parents.

 

[Griz]

What size tank are they in now?
You are probably looking at letting them grow up and pair off. The size of your tank will determine how many you can keep. Some will probably have to be moved.

 

[Matt_B]

They are in a 36" tank with sand substrate 2 pieces of bogwood and a cave. Soon will be planted so I think they will be ok till they are bigger and im looking for a 48" (75-90 gallon) in my local news paper for when they grow bigger.

Thanks matt b