Tank evolution over one year

[johnnymax]

Okay, I set up my aquarium for my tilapia fry a year ago. I put a lot of thought into the look.
Over the year the fish got bigger and bigger, and tried to make the aquarium their own.
I finally gave up and let them have it.


I set up my aquarium with rocks and drift wood. I was happy with the look.


As the fish got bigger and messy, I realized I needed to make it easier to vacuum and clean.


Now the tank is a mess. I do 70% water changes regularly and they destroy the bottom picking up rocks and spitting them out to make nests.

This year has seen a big change in my view of keeping fish. Now that they can be themselves and do as they please, I enjoy them so much more.
There is beauty in natural chaos!
I am about to start building a home and a much bigger aquarium is in the design. There are sections that will have thicker concrete in the slab to support a big tank.
One day..... One day....

 

[Deadeye]

Great progress and fish!
One of the best and worst parts about cichlids is the part where they decide what you do with the tank, and still mess around with it.
Is the black and white male/female coloration or is it due to dominance?

 

[johnnymax]

Great progress and fish!
One of the best and worst parts about cichlids is the part where they decide what you do with the tank, and still mess around with it.
Is the black and white male/female coloration or is it due to dominance?

All the fish are all white unless they are spawning. The black ones are the males making nests.
If I go to catch a female holding eggs in her mouth I guess I disturb the mood of the tank.
As soon as the nets go in the water the males go from black to white in a matter of second.
Pretty freaking amazing. I need to try to catch it on video some how.