Thanks for adding me to the forum. I stumbled across the website while researching cichlids.
I have been interested in setting up a cichlid tank for a few years, but haven't taken the plunge yet. I am getting very close to pulling the trigger now. I wanted to set up a goldfish tank, but decided I could have a couple of goldfish or I could have several more cichlids. I think a few additional numbers will make the tank more interesting. And since it's going to be a big part of any room we set it up in, I think it needs to be entertaining.
I would like to have a large tank, but large seems to also coincide with "high cost". I have decided on either 55 gallon or 75 gallon. I hope I can find a 75 gallon that is affordable. I have found that tank prices range from $150 - $700 or more so there are a lot of decisions and considerations to be made. My budget is not unlimited, but I am willing to make some smart purchases that might mean spending more now to save money later on.
I am open to all suggestions and will continue checking out the information available here on the forum. I think I'd be wise to stick to fish that reach 4 - 5" maximum size, but I am open to suggestions.
I have been reading about fishless cycling and some of the cichlid profiles the past several days. That reading has been helpful and I am sure it will help me get started in a more efficient manner and hopefully be much, much better for my fish.
I am primarily interested in "beginner" level fish to get started. And although I am still learning, I think I am mostly interested in omnivores at this point. Some of the colors and fish characteristics that attracted me to cichlids over goldfish are the beautiful color variations available in the cichlids.
(I am also an avid catch and release carp fisherman and thus my initial interest in goldfish and koi. I understand that koi are best suited to outdoor ponds and goldfish need at least 20 gallons per fish once they are full grown.)
