Life after "Wet pet" Stocking help

[jarhead92]

Nice Tex hybrid, I'm sorry about your loss...
If you don't want an overly aggressive fish stay away from Salvini's...they aren't the biggest cichlid but for their size I've found them to be one of the most aggressive (or should I say territorial maybe) fish I've ever owned.
They are a beautiful fish though, but don't have the "wet pet" personality of some of the other species as mentioned by others.
I know Dempseys are a dime-a-dozen nowadays but there's a reason. Not only are they a very attractive fish but they have a lot of personality too, on par with some Jags or Oscars.
If you like the Tex-hybrd get another Texas...not all are aggressive, some have a lot of personality (mine has the personality and excitement of a thumbtack but that's him, had others that were awesome) and they are a very beautiful cichlid I think.
Or get something rare and a little less common and see what it grows into...do what you like, not what others would do.
I agree, don't get Africans if it's your only tank...they are pretty but lame compared to the SA's/CA's unless you go Nimbichromis (JMO)

I agree that ca/sa are much better than Africans. Hope to get my hands on a chocolate Cichlid and then a few smaller non aggressive cichlids. Thanks

 

[Cloves4Oscar]

My LFS has some beautiful Chocolate cichlids for sale. They've had them for awhile and no one has bought any of them...I would get one but they are too docile for my tanks I think?
They also have "Rose Queens" which are very nice as well but those are supposed to get very aggressive when big I'm told but beautiful cichlid as well and something different. Still thinking about getting one but I'm kinda maxed out for fish vs. aquarium space for the timebeing.

 

[jarhead92]

Hopefully my LFS will have a chocolate once I'm done cycling. Haven't had to cycle in over 5 years and am growing inpatient. Anyway, some of you also suggested a school of dithers and was wondering what type you would suggest for the type of cichlids I'm considering: chocolate, red sev, rainbow, key hole? Thanks again!

 

[Anchovie]

Well technically you don't need dithers at all if you don't experience any aggression. But when choosing dithers you have to look at the size, and the ability to survive a few punches. Alot of people like to use silver dollars. I prefer tinfoil barbs. I feel like they grow faster and they also force my cichlids to compete for food. Some big cichlids get way too lazy with no competition. Keeps em young. You could use whatever you want for dithers. I've even seen flagtails used as dithers, which is a terrible idea. Just pick something you like the look of and are able to replace when necessary.


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[jarhead92]

Picked up a red severum and a firemouth today. Both around 1 1/2 inches. Ordered a chocolate and 2 rainbows as well. Thanks everyone for the suggestions!