Some Questions Regarding My Cichlid Aquarium

[storm45]

Hi, i just wanted to know if peacock cichlids like a weak or strong water current. I have researched using google but cant really find a definite answer, i think they probably like little or no current but i am unsure, would really help if anyone could provide an answer.

My second question is, is it necessary to have a specific lighting schedule? are the cichlids really effected by this? i don't have any plants in the tank.

I have a few small cichlids which from time to time swim into the filter output current, is this a sign that the aquarium needs more aeration?

Regarding the feeding, i feed them hikari cichlid gold pellets, frozen shrimp and peas. I usually feed them once in the morning and once in the evening, but after reading on the forum, many people only feed once a day, 6 days a week, is that not too little?

Sometimes they swim up and down against the glass, is this a sign for anything? maybe hungry or something?

thanks, any help would be really appreciated.

 

[jimv8673]

Most cichlids are not particular about current as long as its not blowing them out of the tank. However good strong circulation will help keep your tank water well oxygenated, and also aid in keeping the tank clean, by way of keeping particulates stirred up so the filter can remove them.

Your fish dont really care whether you have a light at all or not, in your case with no live plants, the light is more for your viewing pleasur than anything, i would put them on a timer and not run more than 8-9 hours a day, or you may start to experience algae growth. I dont mind a little green algae around as some cichlids will graze on it, and it helps purify the water and to me is not all that unsightly.

Fish are the most efficient animal on earth as far as nutrient absorption, so feeding even every other day is not gonna starve the fish, They are like a dog when they see the food provider coming, in nature fish are opportunistic feeders, and will eat and bounce around to make you think they are hungry, and in this case it seems they have you trained pretty well. Fish growth is also tied to feeding, but who is in a hurry to max out a fish, take your time, enjoy the ride. and enjoy a less dirty tank, because they never eat all you throw in, and everything they do eat comes out the other end.

 

[storm45]

thanks for the reply, very helpful. They seem more active now that i have lifted the filter outlet a little higher, so now it is agitating the water surface much more. Perhaps there was a lack of aeration before, not too sure.