Substrate / Decor For Rams?

[ThinIce]

Hi all,

I'm planning a new tank for a pair of Rams - any comments on the following would be appreciated.

1. Sand or gravel?
2. I know planted tanks are a given - any particular type of plant favoured?
3. Caves - is it important to have an equal number of caves to the number of rams? I'm planning to do the rocks in such a way there will be plenty of hidey holes - but it seemed best to check

TIA

 

[a.d.wood]

1. Sand or gravel?

Go for a reasonably fine grade of silica sand. I only use 'swimming pool filter sand' which I get from the local swimming pool/hot tub shop. I find that the play sand/silver sand compacts too much.

2. I know planted tanks are a given - any particular type of plant favoured?

My personal preference is amazon swords in their own pots, at least this way you can get the compost around the roots of the plant and growth (without CO2) is very good. Just add a layer of fine gravel to the top of the pot to stop the compost being dug out by the fish.

3. Caves - is it important to have an equal number of caves to the number of rams? I'm planning to do the rocks in such a way there will be plenty of hidey holes - but it seemed best to check

You can never have too many caves, although have a look on this forum for the threads detailing caves made from coconut shells (eg coconut caves ) as getting plenty of caves the fish feel secure in with just rocks might prove difficult.

Regards

Andrew

 

[ThinIce]

Thanks for the reply, much appreciated