How large a tank do I need?

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Omrit

Piranha
MFK Member
Nov 13, 2015
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I am thinking of two different set ups. I am aware the tank needed would be pretty large. I was thinking 6 angelfish, 4 rams (2 pairs), a large group of schooling fish (18 or maybe two species with 12 in each school) unsure of species but maybe like bleeding heart tetra, 8 cory cats, 4 kuhli loaches. How large a tank would be needed for something like this?


The 2nd set up is 4 severums, 2 Nicaraguan cichlids, 1 Caquetaia spectabilis, 6 filament barbs, and one medium sized catfish(like a pictis)


How large a tank would either of these set ups need? I'm not sure what size tank I am going to get but I realize it will be a big one. The reason I ask about two different set ups is because I am unsure of what I'm going to do.
 
For the first one, I'd say depending on footprint; a 100g would give you some good space, arguably it could be done in a smaller aquarium but you'd be more prone to angelfish squabbles, and cramping.

2nd set-up would be quite a bit larger, as the bioload would be much bigger; If i had to guess it would be in the realms of 150g + to do it justice.
 
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But I like convicts idea more.
 
Well you know the minimum would be 100 gallons. But try and get bigger if you can afford it.
 
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Maybe some people are going to have a big problem with this, but I really think the first set up could be done in much less than a 100g if you have decent filter and WC regimen - angels get tall but they really aren't that big of fish unless you get Altums, and the other fish you listed are pretty tiny. Not sure if you are doing planted on that tank but if you do I think that decreases the size of tank you need, both because it helps with the processing fish waste and because it creates a much more rich environment where fish are less likely to fight...

I read in an article on PFK that they did a scientific study and found fish (cichlids specifically) where less aggressive and more friendly to new fish when the had an enriched environment as opposed to a bare tank. You may have to reduce the number of angels as they get older, but I personally would have no problem doing that tank you have suggested in a 55g (and I have successfully done planted tanks with very similar inhabitants to what you listed), though I prefer a 75-90g footprint.

I would also personally recommend more than 4 kuhli loaches - they get much bolder when there are more (like 8-10 - and there are just more to see!) and they are such a tiny bioload, why not?).

The second setup people have been pretty spot on when it comes suggestions - 125g++
 
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