interlude

That tank looks amazing and it looks like something I really want to setup. Quick question, when you have that many plants, is a CO2 system a MUST have? How much do CO2 systems usually run for? I have read alot of DIY on CO2 systems but I would rather just buy a system (less headaches)

I am no expert on dwarf cichlids, in terms of starting your tank I would use the sponge filter and all the decorations/gravel/water from the 5 gallon, should give you lots of starter/seed bacteria Thanks so much for the reply, I will try that this weekend. Would you guys use sand or finer sand for a dwarf setup? Are there any filter recommendations? There is a good selection of fish you can add to a tank containing a Ram. I have had Angels, Rasboras, Clown Loaches(juvies), Cardinals, BN Pleco, Cories, asst'd Tetras etc. You can use whatever appeals to you for substrate (sand or gravel). Cories and loaches love sand but the downside is, plants don't root well in sand. I like a mix of sand and small gravel...it looks more natural than just sand. As for filters, I use mostly Aqua Clear filters though alot of people swear by cannister filters, Aqua Clear is easy to clean and maintain ( especially if you are kinda new to the hobby) Hope this helps you out a bit! :thumbs: Just my 2 cents Tammy Awesome thanks Tammy! When you say small gravel and sand.. did you mix that throughout the whole tank? or gravel where the plants are and a mix everywhere else? Thanks for the suggestions guys!

Any updates? :thumbs:

I am no expert on dwarf cichlids, in terms of starting your tank I would use the sponge filter and all the decorations/gravel/water from the 5 gallon, should give you lots of starter/seed bacteria Thanks so much for the reply, I will try that this weekend. Would you guys use sand or finer sand for a dwarf setup? Are there any filter recommendations?

Anybody? Can I add dwarf corys into this tank with either a bolivian ram or german blue ram?

Hey guys, I am new to the board and new to the cichlid scene. In fact, I am very new to this hobby. I have been doing ALOT of research. About 2 months ago I built a small 5g with my betta and some dwarf cory's. Now I want to build a 33g with some dwarf cichlids. I was looking at the Bolivian Rams. Do you guys know if Riverfront or Golds has any in stock? What are some good tankmates? I am currently surfing youtube and I think this one guy has some queen rasboras in with the bolivian rams. My question is this, what kinds of other dwarf cichlids can I include in the tank? Also, what kinds of tankmates are suitable for this setup. Im hoping to get the new tank this week, and start a fishless cycle. Or can I use the sponge from my 5g? Thanks for the help guys!