Bare Tank vs Decorated Tank.

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vfrstephen

Gambusia
MFK Member
Nov 8, 2007
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Timbuktoo
What is the better option, little or no rocks and wood and plenty of swimming room, or caves and hiding spots from a decorated tank?

I have a Red Devil (5 inches), Oscar (12 inches), 3 Silver Dollars ( 6 inches) in a 180 gallon (6x2x2) aquarium.

The Red Devil can get in agressive moods chasing the dollars around but they seem to like plenty of open swimming room. So far the Red Devil does not attack the oscar, though i have only had the Devil for 1 week.
 
I prefer to keep some decorations in the tank - - rocks, plants, driftwood, flower pots, etc. - - to create "territories" . . .

I have found that aggression levels go down when each fish (or pair of fish) has a home-base that they can feel comfortable in

that's what has worked for me anyway
 
I believe you should have both. Plenty of hiding spots, but also should have plenty of open areas to swim.
 
I'd definitely have some decoration at least to try to set up boundaries. I always try to have a few sight breaks just to be safe. I've never kept a devil myself but the way I understand it, they can flip their switch over night. On top of that I just think tanks look better when decorated nicely.
 
Fish like to explore and check things out. A blank tank is boring to look at and live in. decorations give shelter and help fish feel safe.

So yes put some decor in the tank.
 
The Silver Dollars will probably not go into a cave to hide from the Red Devil. Mine prefer to hide behind a tall ornament or driftwood. That way they are out of sight, but have room to suddenly accelerate if chased.
 
Light sand, floating plans, small piece of drift wood and call it a day.
 
im really not sure for cichlids without having a long hard think.. not gonna happen at this time lol

however, they recommend hiding places for piranha, i would never see them and they were so scared'/skittish. i painted my background black and took everything out.

it has had a great effect! they are less shy and swim about freely...

just my two cents (as they say here on MFK)
 
Decorated.
 
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