First foray into american cichlids

[duanes]

A 125 gal tank is not a large tank.
I don't consider my 180 a large enough tank for any but medium size cichlids, so to me, cramming too many fish in that size tank or smaller one, and adding something the potential size of a Vieja IMO, is not a good idea.
I also do not consider a 180 large enough for for more a single or pair of Vieja, much less adding more cichlids.
As semi adults, my coerleopunctatus were fine, it was when they hit maturity that the blood bath started, and the males only top off at about 7" (but I must admit I did expect problems).
To me a goal of FMs and a few JDs (and some non-cichlid dithers) will fully stock a 125 as soon as they all mature.

 

[stillsirpaul]

Update -- I picked up my new 125 gallon over the weekend, and it is set in place and levelled. Will look to pick up some sand this week -- thinking probably black sand.

Was wondering, for those still tuned in, what sort of lighting they would recommend over the 125G? This is my first 6' tank. From a search of the forum I see that often the recommendation is for two 36" fixtures. Any that people seem to like for a Cichlid tank? Not really planning any plants.

Thanks as always.

 

[Rocksor]

Update -- I picked up my new 125 gallon over the weekend, and it is set in place and levelled. Will look to pick up some sand this week -- thinking probably black sand.

Was wondering, for those still tuned in, what sort of lighting they would recommend over the 125G? This is my first 6' tank. From a search of the forum I see that often the recommendation is for two 36" fixtures. Any that people seem to like for a Cichlid tank? Not really planning any plants.

Thanks as always.

I've used spotlight LEDs so that there are dark areas in the tank for the fish to hang out in if they find the lighting too bright. I used to of these on either end for an 8 foot tank. I don't have a canopy so it's relatively easy to use these. I always found it a pain to have to remove the canopy on a 4 foot tank whenever I serviced the tank. I like how I can angle the lights any way that I please. I think I have some shots from above my tank, which I will post later.

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