suggestions for smaller non aggressive cichlids?

**fishmommie** · 05-01-2012, 06:56 PM

Hi
I'm taking my time trying to decide what my new tank will be. Have my eye on either a 46 bow front or a 55 rectangle. I have researched Discus, and possibilities for a community tank.

I do not, however, want to rule out cichlids before I make my final decision.
I would be looking to set up a display tank only. I do not care to breed. I'd like to keep the fish to under 4 inches fully grown and want non- aggressive fish - is that even possible with cichlids?

If so, would there be a possibility of setting up a non-aggressive cichlid community with lots of color and variety and not a lot of size. While Rams are adorable, I've pretty much ruled them out as it appears they are pretty delicate and hard to keep.

If anyone has any suggestions for a cichlid community with lots of color, I'd sure appreciate it.
thanks.

**Lady Hobbs** · 05-01-2012, 07:00 PM

All cichlids have a bit of being testy in them and why they are cichlids. Doesn't mean they tear others apart but they do like to do their dance.

Rams, kribs and apisto's are all nice.

**Sandz** · 05-01-2012, 07:51 PM

Agreed, also Angels are good with that group... you want smaller fish so Sevrums are out but I really enjoy them. Same with the Geophagus group...

**ScottishFish** · 05-01-2012, 08:25 PM

Bolivian rams are the most peaceful in experience. I currently have a breeding pair of kribs, their colours are unrivaled, if you provide them with lots of nooks, crannies and caves and your tank is min 3ft long they are pretty mellow if they don't feel crowded.

Discus aren't a good choice for you, unless you bought a breeding pair and then rehomed all your other stock.

Oh and by the way, discus are cichlids

**fishmommie** · 05-01-2012, 11:08 PM

Thanks everyone.
I realize that Discus are cichlids (sorry) but tend to forget that and think of them in a class by themselves because they are so unique. And yes, I also realize they are most likely out for me - unless I can find room for the 55 as I must have a minimum of 5 (unless a matted pair) and they need plenty of room. Still, of all the FW fish, I love the looks of Discus the most. Again, I would have to think long and hard before I'd ever truly consider a tank of them.

I'm getting more and more interested in the Rams and Kribs. Must do more reading on them. Must they be kept strictly with other cichlids or could the could the be good additions to a community tank - say with rummys and rainbows? I don't want any compatabilty issues.
Again, thanks

**ScottishFish** · 05-01-2012, 11:18 PM

My kribs are currently housed with;

Pleco, Firemouth, corys, danios, khuli loaches, and there's no real issues, provide them with what they like and its all good. They are fine with tetras and I assume they would be with rainbows aswell, in a 55g if you think through how to set it up you wouldn't have hassle with a breeding pair.

Not that I'm hinting I love kribs

Here's my female, pics rubbish but its the colours I'm tryn to show

**Cermet** · 05-02-2012, 01:16 AM

Discus require many years of upkeep (mine are well over four (yes, scottishfish, I finally figured it out)) and a lot of large water changes done often (far, far more when raised as young!) A 55 gal is barely enough for five and five is an iffy number for a school. Still, most discus keepers never go back (However, Kribs are tempting!)

One other point - discus are really single species due to high water temperature requirements; there are a few exceptions.