Just finished my 180 Gallon Planted
- Thread starter G8zzaj
- Start date
beautiful. hard to want to mess with a good setup like that.is he a golden crossback? malaysian gold?
He's a super grade high gold crossback - I actually don't know what that means 
but that's what the certificate says.
Yeah I love the look of the tank now I've changed to planted - just think I'd much rather have some smaller fish weaving in and out of the plants etc.... rather than the big dog patrolling the top.
Have potentially been thinking about keeping the EBJD and Polleni and having the below as I have a green terror and jack dempsey growing out in another tank
Polleni
EBJD
Jack Dempsey
Green Terror
5 Geophagus
8 Congo Tetra
but that's what the certificate says.Yeah I love the look of the tank now I've changed to planted - just think I'd much rather have some smaller fish weaving in and out of the plants etc.... rather than the big dog patrolling the top.
Have potentially been thinking about keeping the EBJD and Polleni and having the below as I have a green terror and jack dempsey growing out in another tank
Polleni
EBJD
Jack Dempsey
Green Terror
5 Geophagus
8 Congo Tetra
were are you located? is the arowana for sale?He's a super grade high gold crossback - I actually don't know what that means
Yeah I love the look of the tank now I've changed to planted - just think I'd much rather have some smaller fish weaving in and out of the plants etc.... rather than the big dog patrolling the top.
Have potentially been thinking about keeping the EBJD and Polleni and having the below as I have a green terror and jack dempsey growing out in another tank
Polleni
EBJD
Jack Dempsey
Green Terror
5 Geophagus
8 Congo Tetra
Beautiful tank...and just for the record, you are never ever "finished" setting up a planted tank. 
I've always enjoyed the look of large and small fish in the same tank; and your planted tank would indeed be well-suited for some little guys down in the greenery. So...instead of just another boring big tank with just another selection of boring big fish...why don't you consider keeping just the Aro for a "big" fish, along with a school of very small fish like Cardinal Tetras or Endlers or some other schooling nano fish? I think your Aro is big enough to be unwilling to bother chasing tiny mouthfuls that yield fewer calories than catching them expends. Small livebearers like Endlers are especially nice for this, as their fry add yet another level of size at the low end, creating interest.
Entering the room would instantly display a big beautiful Aro as the centerpiece...and then approaching closer will reveal the little guys living under the radar. I've done this set-up a couple of times and absolutely loved it; it worked perfectly with a Giant Gourami and again with an African Aro. Tried it with a Jelly Cat but that fish eventually slurped up all the little guys when they happened to pass too close, so it's very much a case-by-case experiment. Maybe worth consideration?
I've always enjoyed the look of large and small fish in the same tank; and your planted tank would indeed be well-suited for some little guys down in the greenery. So...instead of just another boring big tank with just another selection of boring big fish...why don't you consider keeping just the Aro for a "big" fish, along with a school of very small fish like Cardinal Tetras or Endlers or some other schooling nano fish? I think your Aro is big enough to be unwilling to bother chasing tiny mouthfuls that yield fewer calories than catching them expends. Small livebearers like Endlers are especially nice for this, as their fry add yet another level of size at the low end, creating interest.
Entering the room would instantly display a big beautiful Aro as the centerpiece...and then approaching closer will reveal the little guys living under the radar. I've done this set-up a couple of times and absolutely loved it; it worked perfectly with a Giant Gourami and again with an African Aro. Tried it with a Jelly Cat but that fish eventually slurped up all the little guys when they happened to pass too close, so it's very much a case-by-case experiment. Maybe worth consideration?
Thanks for your reply jjohnwm,
I like the sound of that, however I have a tank already with cardinal tetras and rummy nose tetras so would like to try something else.
Would Congo Tetras or Denison Barbs work or would they be too big and considered a snack?
Also would the congo, denison or endlers work if I kept the Polleni and EBJD and added a JD, Green Terror and 5 Geophagus?
I like the sound of that, however I have a tank already with cardinal tetras and rummy nose tetras so would like to try something else.
Would Congo Tetras or Denison Barbs work or would they be too big and considered a snack?
Also would the congo, denison or endlers work if I kept the Polleni and EBJD and added a JD, Green Terror and 5 Geophagus?
For sure Congos and Denisons would quickly grow to a size that would make them attractive as prey to the Aro.
They both grow big enough that I would assume they would be fine with some of those cichlids. Never had pollenii, and I would worry about the GT. Probably no issue with Geos, and likely JD's, but different individual fish can vary in aggressiveness.
Endlers wouldn't stand a chance except possibly with the Geos.
Again, each case is unique unto itself. You need more input from hard-core cichlid people.
They both grow big enough that I would assume they would be fine with some of those cichlids. Never had pollenii, and I would worry about the GT. Probably no issue with Geos, and likely JD's, but different individual fish can vary in aggressiveness.
Endlers wouldn't stand a chance except possibly with the Geos.
Again, each case is unique unto itself. You need more input from hard-core cichlid people.
It sounds like you're embarking on an exciting new journey with your planted 180-gallon tank! Starting fresh and exploring different options can be a fun and creative process. Here are a few ideas for fish that you could consider:
Discus: These majestic and colorful fish are known for their striking patterns and elegant appearance. They can be a great addition to a planted tank, adding a vibrant touch to the overall aesthetic.
Rainbowfish: With their vibrant colors and active behavior, rainbowfish can bring a lively and dynamic element to your tank. They are also known for their peaceful nature, making them compatible with a variety of tankmates.
Corydoras Catfish: These small, bottom-dwelling catfish are not only adorable but also play an essential role in keeping the substrate clean. They come in various species, each with its unique patterns and colors.
Angelfish: Known for their graceful presence and distinctive shape, angelfish can be a captivating focal point in your tank. They come in a variety of color variations, allowing you to choose the ones that best complement your planted setup.
Remember to research the specific care requirements, compatibility, and preferred water parameters of any fish species you consider. This will help ensure a harmonious and thriving aquarium environment. Best of luck with your new fish selection, and I hope your revamped tank becomes a beautiful and enjoyable centerpiece in your home!
Discus: These majestic and colorful fish are known for their striking patterns and elegant appearance. They can be a great addition to a planted tank, adding a vibrant touch to the overall aesthetic.
Rainbowfish: With their vibrant colors and active behavior, rainbowfish can bring a lively and dynamic element to your tank. They are also known for their peaceful nature, making them compatible with a variety of tankmates.
Corydoras Catfish: These small, bottom-dwelling catfish are not only adorable but also play an essential role in keeping the substrate clean. They come in various species, each with its unique patterns and colors.
Angelfish: Known for their graceful presence and distinctive shape, angelfish can be a captivating focal point in your tank. They come in a variety of color variations, allowing you to choose the ones that best complement your planted setup.
Remember to research the specific care requirements, compatibility, and preferred water parameters of any fish species you consider. This will help ensure a harmonious and thriving aquarium environment. Best of luck with your new fish selection, and I hope your revamped tank becomes a beautiful and enjoyable centerpiece in your home!