Hi All: I am a salty and have been keeping a tank for about a yr now.
I am interested in setting up a Ciclid tank as I would like a new tank and don't think my wallet (i.e. the wife) can handle a 125gal worth of LR for a new SW tank, new Protein skimmer, etc etc, etc etc.
I'm not to interested in a typical FW community tank, I think they are a little boring for my taste (not to insult anyone, just my take). I have always loved Ciclids and the coloration that they can bring to a tank. Plus, my LFS has a nice one setup and has put the bug in me.
I wanted to do some reading for a couple of months (Christmas you know) before buying myself a present. My particular questions have to do with:
1) What equipment and tank "decor" (i.e. types of rock or wood) do I need to get started, i was thinking of a 75gal - 125 gal.
2) Care, stocking levels, and water quality needs
3) Different species and types like Malawi, New World, Lake Vic, etc.
4) Compatibility
5) Budget Considerations (compared to SW)
Any recommendations on FAQ's or books would help me out greatly.
Thanks in advance for the help.
I am interested in setting up a Ciclid tank as I would like a new tank and don't think my wallet (i.e. the wife) can handle a 125gal worth of LR for a new SW tank, new Protein skimmer, etc etc, etc etc.
I'm not to interested in a typical FW community tank, I think they are a little boring for my taste (not to insult anyone, just my take). I have always loved Ciclids and the coloration that they can bring to a tank. Plus, my LFS has a nice one setup and has put the bug in me.
I wanted to do some reading for a couple of months (Christmas you know) before buying myself a present. My particular questions have to do with:
1) What equipment and tank "decor" (i.e. types of rock or wood) do I need to get started, i was thinking of a 75gal - 125 gal.
2) Care, stocking levels, and water quality needs
3) Different species and types like Malawi, New World, Lake Vic, etc.
4) Compatibility
5) Budget Considerations (compared to SW)
Any recommendations on FAQ's or books would help me out greatly.
Thanks in advance for the help.