Stocking 30 gal Cichlid tank

[BKshish]

Hey AA!

I've been keeping fish for almost 8 months now and want to take the step of raising cichlids. I originally wanted to start with them, but all the signs told me that was a bad idea. However, I've gotten a strong sense of this aquarist hobby, and now want to take on this stage. I got a 30 gal regular size tank (it was given to me by family so getting a larger tank isn't possible as I have invested so much in my community tank thus far), I intend to hardscape it, certain plants in mind, but I'm not sure what the main attraction of this tank will be. I would like to put 5-6 peacocks in here, but I'm seeing that may be too difficult given the size of my tank. I looked into dwarf cichlids, but aren't really attracted to most of the species I can get ahold of locally.

What it comes down to, is that I really like the red and yellows some cichlids offer and would REALLY want to incorporate as much of this color pattern as I can. Please help me with this, I search and learn but having a tough time finding the matching setup I desire. Im more visually invested in my tanks versus attitude or tendency of certain fish species. Any and all advice is appreciated, and I'm open to any considerations.

(I should note that I don't desire to do online purchases, but if multiple recommend a single location then it well be considered. Btw, I live in Dallas, Texas)

 

[JDL2013]

What kind of cichlids are u wanting to do Africans or new world cichlids? If your doing Africans in a 30 u could do kribensis or birchardis or something like that ? If new world cichlids u have alot of the apistogramma species u can choose from or u can get some type of ram cichlid.

 

[BKshish]

Originally I wanted Lake Malawi peacocks, but due to my limitations I think the apistogrammas seem like the best choice. Problem is, not a lot on sale locally, most of the ones I like are online and that's where I'm iffy.

 

[Fishperson]

I've heard that online buys are actually safe. But I haven't tryed it.

 

[BKshish]

There's 2 places in north fort worth I need to check out, but if a local breeder had some id check it out or take a recommendation. Craigslist is kinda empty at the moment for dwarf cichlids

 

[bettaowner]

If you want a dwarf cichlid that is fairly common, mikrogeophagus ramerzi is a great option.

 

[azmodan]

Ordering online is probably your best bet and most vendors guarantee live arrival with Express shipping. Try AquaBid or The Wet Spot (http://www.wetspottropicalfish.com/). The Wet Spot has a terrific selection of apistos.