I think stanz hit the nail on the head- those videos actually look like they have a lot of cover to me, especially since the entire bottom is covered in branches and leaves, and not a single flat layer of gravel, which would be most of our tanks without décor. To say that most live with little cover in the wild, I think would be remiss. I've gone snorkeling with jack dempseys in Mexico, and in the cenotes there is lots and lots of cover- rocky overhangs, floating plants and algae masses, fallen trees, etc. I do think some cichlids (mostly adult CA males) can live with pretty minimal décor and be fine, it depends on the fish's personality. Also has a lot to do with the other fish in the tank. Even young fish may feel comfortable in a sparsely decorated tank if there are dithers swimming about happily.
If you want to try a more minimalistic scape, I would say go for it. If the fish become shy and reclusive, may need to add more décor. But if they are happy and comfortable, leave it. I just re-did my Mexican tank, and the new version has no rocks or caves whatsoever. The fish are happy to dart around in the stem plants and swim in the open, because they are comfortable as a group and are used to me walking around the tank.
If you want to try a more minimalistic scape, I would say go for it. If the fish become shy and reclusive, may need to add more décor. But if they are happy and comfortable, leave it. I just re-did my Mexican tank, and the new version has no rocks or caves whatsoever. The fish are happy to dart around in the stem plants and swim in the open, because they are comfortable as a group and are used to me walking around the tank.
