Cichlid tank dimensions

[convict360]

Hi guys, something I was thinking about this morning; is tank footprint and general dimensions for cichlids, specifically in terms of encouraging natural behaviour.

I've noticed that people breeding smaller cichlids in tanks of say 24x12x12 inches, sometimes the cichlids are reclusive; even in longer tanks such as 36x12x12. Conversely, I've seen cichlids confidently explore tanks with dimensions such as 18" length x 15" width x 12" height.

Now obviously the main goal would be to provide the biggest tank possible for say a convict cichlid, but in smaller temporary set-ups; has anyone else noticed a positive correlation in natural behaviour, in tanks with a wider footprint, at the expense of length?

Hopefully I can get some more opinions on this, if I do attempt breeding marble convicts in future (note, tank would be for holding single specimens, not pairs).

 

[Rocksor]

I've noticed that people breeding smaller cichlids in tanks of say 24x12x12 inches, sometimes the cichlids are reclusive; even in longer tanks such as 36x12x12. Conversely, I've seen cichlids confidently explore tanks with dimensions such as 18" length x 15" width x 12" height.

Now obviously the main goal would be to provide the biggest tank possible for say a convict cichlid, but in smaller temporary set-ups; has anyone else noticed a positive correlation in natural behaviour, in tanks with a wider footprint, at the expense of length?

Was the wider tank owned by the same person who owned the longer tanks and in the same spot as the longer tanks? Was it the same fish in each tank?

 

[convict360]

Was the wider tank owned by the same person who owned the longer tanks and in the same spot as the longer tanks? Was it the same fish in each tank?

Those factors undoubtedly have a large effect on behaviour, my experiences have been from different fish rooms; and even my own experiences of different shaped tanks (I'll admit it's a loose number of factors)

For example, in my 92 corner tank, my GT pretty much instantly became comfortable; coming to the front of the tank constantly, whereas in my 52 long, which was 6 inches longer but narrower than the 90, he became a virtual recluse. When moved back to the 92, he was back to normal behaviour etc (this includes time to settle, i.e. months between being moved).

Another example that kind of inspired this thread, was temping my convict in a 15 gallon square tank; which he confidently explored. Just seemed to go against the common wisdom of length instead of width, as I was sure he'd hide constantly in the small length.

 

[PYRU]

You're looking for a controlled answer with an uncontrolled environment. Too many variables to really answer.

In all honesty all the dimensions are important. You're really hindered by what's offered by tank manufacturers and by the $ amount of each tank. The height will be the only thing that really changes with a 75 - up unless you get some custom built setup.

The artificial environment you create will be what makes them more comfortable imho.

 

[convict360]

You're looking for a controlled answer with an uncontrolled environment. Too many variables to really answer.

In all honesty all the dimensions are important. You're really hindered by what's offered by tank manufacturers and by the $ amount of each tank. The height will be the only thing that really changes with a 75 - up unless you get some custom built setup.

The artificial environment you create will be what makes them more comfortable imho.

good answer. Luckily there's a custom tank producer near me, so I can be selective when I do get round to some sort of breeding project.

 

[dan518]

Imo yes wider tanks are better, if you have a timid fish in a 12inch wide tank it can only get 12inch away from you 24inch wide it can get twice as far. Also i have a 6 by 2 by 2 yet my old male lyonsi had a territory of about 4 by 4 and my midas male now has about 4 by 3 both territory's extend out of the tank , i reckon if i had a 6 by 4 i wouldnt get the glass banging