Look at my tank and critique

[Jeff5347]

OK so I'm curious on your thoughts. This is how I have my CA cichlid tank setup. Lots of rocks with caves and hiding spots. Most rocks are what I found while walking or who knows where. Some are from a Maine beach ( yes they were soaked and cleaned excessively years ago). I know CA like roots and trees and such but what are you thoughts. Should I redo with different rocks (what kind) rescale so a 3rd of the tank is sand, remove a few or make the pile higher instead of wide...or just leave as is

 

[Gourami Swami]

It's really all preference, as long as you have enough decorations that the fish feel safe you are good. some people like pink gravel and little plastic treasure chests, some like naturalistic setups. Personally I think your tank looks great as it is

 

[Stanzzzz7]

Agree with above.
If you like it and it's functional for the fish,that's all that really matters.

 

[cichlidfish]

Agree w/ the other two.

 

[virgil2090]

Yup,everyone sees aquascaping different.I seem to get bored of same look after a few months.you can try rock pile to one side,then maybe add some driftwood.taller branches can help fill the upper space

 

[ragin_cajun]

Build a sump, and get all those pipes and tubes and wires outta your tank. You could also consider some driftwood. Manzanita is good. Mopani will sink immediately. I think maybe you need something more vertical to make it look kinda balanced?

 

[MrsE88]

Yep, it's all preference as long as it functions well for your fish.
I'm always tweaking things in my tanks. Every water change something is getting moved. Usually just moving plants my fish uproot because she doesn't like it's location.

 

[Jeff5347]

Oh its functional. They love hiding lol. Wish they would be out a little more. That's why I was think of having a pile more offset and having an open area to swim. I agree on getting alot of the hoses and junk out. I have a canister and 2 hob. An aq 110 and a quietflow I use for biofiltration w lava rocks and pothos. I was thinking on driftwood or at least branches but don't wanna deal with tannins or rotting wood. Anyone know of good fake lifelike branches. Maybe they may like hanging out there

 

[Stanzzzz7]

Oh its functional. They love hiding lol. Wish they would be out a little more. That's why I was think of having a pile more offset and having an open area to swim. I agree on getting alot of the hoses and junk out. I have a canister and 2 hob. An aq 110 and a quietflow I use for biofiltration w lava rocks and pothos. I was thinking on driftwood or at least branches but don't wanna deal with tannins or rotting wood. Anyone know of good fake lifelike branches. Maybe they may like hanging out there

Use dead oak,beech hawthorn or apple tree branches.They take years to rot.
You may get some tannins at first but this lessons over time.
Give your fish cover from above.
Floating plants or branches fixes to the tanks brace bars will help them feel more confident. They can also help hide equipment.

 

[dan518]

+1, cover from above I have found brings your fish out of hiding and gives them more confidence.