Current and cichlids
- Thread starter Buphy
- Start date
I like to have a pretty decent amount. Ensures there are no dead spots in the tank & also keeps most of the poo and dirt off of the bottom and with a better chance of getting sucked up by the filter. My 1400lph canister filter with spray bar and large air pump with stone whips up a fair bit of current in my tank. It helps a lot here in summer too when temps get to 45 celcius, keeps water well oxygenated. Doesn't tend to bother my fish either.
Depends on which kind of cichlids you have. The key is to have enough water movement to keep particles suspended so they can end up in the filter.
I like a fair amount in my tanks, but most of the cichlids I keep are of the rheophillic persuasion. Most of my pumps average in the 2000-2400 gph range, and split up between 2 or 3 tanks. The more riverine species such as Theraps, Chuco or Tomocichla get the brunt while the fry tanks or less current appreciators get throttled back a bit.
Even in what might be considered sedate cenotes, where jack Dempseys are found, current would easily take me downstream while snorkeling if I wasn't holding on to mangrove or tree roots.
You can tell how the plants are bent back by one of my typical young Astatheros tanks.
Even in what might be considered sedate cenotes, where jack Dempseys are found, current would easily take me downstream while snorkeling if I wasn't holding on to mangrove or tree roots.
You can tell how the plants are bent back by one of my typical young Astatheros tanks.
I had 3000lph flow rate in my 55 gallon at one point, it was pretty strong flow; but my fish were OK, had some dead spots for them as well though.
If you're concerned about water movement (or lack thereof), you can always throw in a powerhead/wave maker. Despite having heavy filtration, I've always liked to use a powerhead in my tanks. The additional water agitation creates more oxygen, as well as decreases algae-prone "dead spots". I've had good luck with the model below.
