What type of cichlid is more hardyer afercan or south american

[Jesse18]

My lil brother wants some type cichlid in his new 55g tank but he wants a hardy fish but he can't decide if he wants an afercan or an south American between the two species what is a more hardier fish

 

[toddnbecka]

A 55 would be better suited to SA than most African species. I have several proven pairs of cutteri available. They were fine in an unheated basement tank last winter, temp was mid 60's, only difference I saw was they didn't spawn in the cooler water. Didn't affect their appetites or growth rate at all.

 

[Jesse18]

Thanks what would be the best SA cichlid to start out with because my brother is new to the hobby.

 

[Mouth-Brooder-Fanatic]

a hardy type, maybe a parrotfish or keyholes or convicts (central america though)... i could make a real big list, it all about what he likes best.
has he cycled the tank? x

 

[toddnbecka]

A smaller species suitable for a 55, definitely not an Oscar (they're not that hardy anyway) or even a Jack Dempsey. Firemouths are commonly available, and a pair would be fine in a 55.

 

[Mouth-Brooder-Fanatic]

sorry, il edit it xx

 

[Jesse18]

yes he has