Just got back from the LFS.....

[Polyptasaurus]

salvs are one of the most beautiful cichlids you could possibly buy. the only downside is that they are absurdly mean. sorry - correction - they CAN be absurdly mean.

 

[Kcoastsurfguy]

Might beat on the bala

The Bala and The O seem to be good friends, the O seems to go after anyone that messes with the Bala, like Batman and Robin lol, they seem to keep the peace in the tank

 

[Kcoastsurfguy]

I have a sal in a 135 ca/sa community, smallest one in there. At first when it was heavily decorated, he would guard his little home and chase anything that came near, no matter the size. Now that I've taken 80% of the decor out, he's great.. For they're size, they can pull an attitude, but nothing serious to worry about.. As far as a pair, if you get a m/f, you might have problems for others if they breed down the line. M/m might have problems between the 2. I say if your going for another fish in a community, 1 is perfect.

I believe there both female at least from what I've read and seen they look to be female thats what the guy at the LFS seemed to think as well. Does anyone know any true indicating factors on telling their sex just so I can be certian...

 

[Natural_Born_Killer]

Personally I like having pairs in my tank... just because I don't want one to feel alone.

 

[sick_lid]

I believe there both female at least from what I've read and seen they look to be female thats what the guy at the LFS seemed to think as well. Does anyone know any true indicating factors on telling their sex just so I can be certian...

The females will have a black blotch on their gill plate, a lot more red on the sides and belly, and less blue spangling overall.

 

[darth pike]

Females usually have a black blotch in the dorsal fin where the male won't, though I have seen a pic now of a confirmed male with the black blotch. It does seem the dorsal blotch is more reliable than the gill plate blotch (not all females have it). As above, females usually have more red/less blue ... but again that can vary. So there isn't a 100% proof positive way to tell short of venting, but you should be able to get a good idea.